Document | Document Title |
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US07892742B2 |
PCR screening method
A tooling system (1) having a number of elements (2) arranged in an array, which elements define a contoured surface, or a section of a contoured surface. The tooling system also including means (7) for mounting an element to a support rail (5) which extends across the array, which means allows adjustment of the height of the element with respect to other elements of the array, and extends through the support rail into a space defined below the support rail. A supporting element (6) formed from a suitable resistant material and including accommodation means (8) for the means for mounting, is located in the space below the support rail and is sized so that it substantially vertically fills the space between the support rail and a base on which the tooling system is located. |
US07892740B2 |
Prognosis and therapy predictive markers and methods of use
Disclosed is a set of genes differentially expressed in chemotherapy and radiation resistant tumors useful in predicting response to therapy and assessing risk of local-regional failure, survival and metastasis in cancer patients. Also disclosed are methods for characterizing tumors according to gene expression and kits for use in the methods of the invention. |
US07892739B2 |
Systems, compositions and methods for nucleic acid detection
The invention relates to stretch measurements of nucleic acids and correlating those measurements to the extent of double- and single-stranded content of a nucleic acid of interest, and to compositions, systems, and devices related thereto. In preferred embodiments, one performs the stretch or elasticity measurements under conditions such that one can determine a nucleic acid sequence or the presence of an oligonucleotide in a sample. |
US07892738B2 |
Pot1 alternative splicing variants
The present invention provides methods an compositions for diagnosis and treatment of carcinomas with aberrant expression patterns of POT 1. The invention also provides methods of identifying compounds that may modulate the cellular expression of POT 1. The invention further provides methods for treating subjects suffering from or at risk of developing a colorectal carcinoma. |
US07892730B2 |
Compositions and methods for cancer
The present invention relates to novel sequences for use in diagnosis and treatment of carcinomas, especially lymphoma carcinomas. In addition, the present invention describes the use of novel compositions for use in screening methods. |
US07892729B1 |
Universal and differential serologic assay for swine influenza virus
A universal and differential assay kit for the detection of antibodies to swine influenza virus (SIV) in a biological sample comprising SIV non-structural 1 (NS1) protein and SIV nucleoprotein (NP); a universal and differential assay method for detecting antibodies to SIV in a biological sample comprising assaying the biological sample for the presence of an antibody to SIV NS1 protein and an antibody to SIV NP; primers; and fusion proteins. |
US07892728B2 |
Transporter protein in mammal and utilization of the same
The present invention provides a lipid membrane that contains a polypeptide consisting of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2, 4, 6, 8, or 22. Use of the present invention enables screening for a chemical which regulates excretion of a chemical and/or a waste. Furthermore, use of the present invention enables an arbitrary chemical to be tested for nephrotoxicity and/or hepatotoxicity. |
US07892721B2 |
Storage medium
The invention relates to a storage medium for storing information/data, wherein the storage medium comprises a dielectric storage material, more particularly a disk-shaped storage material on which a metal ion donor medium is arranged or can be applied on at least one side thereof. Metal ions can be transferred from the donor medium into the storage medium by exposing the storage medium to radiation, more particularly to laser radiation. The invention also relates to a storage medium for storing information/data, wherein the storage medium comprises a dielectric storage material, more particularly a disk-shaped storage material having at least one local metal ion doping, wherein the metal ions can be converted into metal particles and/or metal particles agglomerations by means of radiation, more particularly laser radiation. |
US07892718B2 |
Image forming apparatus, image forming method and process cartridge
Provided are image forming apparatuses, image forming methods, and process cartridges using a toner that is excellent in low temperature fixing ability, hot offset resistance, and storage stability, and also generate less odor, and thus that can provide high quality images with superior fixing ability, far from tone change with time, and less likely to occur abnormal images such as density-drop and background smear. The image forming apparatuses comprise a latent electrostatic image bearing member, a charging unit, an exposing unit, a developing unit, a transfer unit, and a fixing unit, wherein the toner comprises a binder resin and a colorant, the binder resin comprises a polyester resin prepared by condensation polymerization between an alcohol component that contains an aliphatic polyvalent alcohol and a carboxylic acid component that contains (meth)acrylic acid-modified rosin. |
US07892716B2 |
Method of preparing core-shell toner and toner prepared using the method
A method of preparing a toner, includes: preparing a core by mixing a polyester resin and a colorant with at least one material selected from the group consisting of a macromonomer having hydrophilic group, hydrophobic group, and at least one reactive functional group and a reactive emulsifying agent. A shell is formed on the core by polymerizing the exterior surface of the core with one or more polymerizable monomers and an initiator, wherein at least one material selected from the group consisting of the macromonomer and the reactive emulsifying agent participate in the polymerization reaction. Also, provided are a toner prepared using the method, an image forming method using the toner, and an image forming apparatus employing the toner. According to the method, a polyester resin, having superior fixability at low temperature and image properties, is used as a core composition and styrene, having superior maintenance and charging properties, is used as a shell composition in the process of manufacturing a core/shell structure to prepare the toner for the image forming apparatus having fast speed and fixability of high quality images at low temperature. In addition, by not using the reactive emulsifying agent, the cleaning process is minimized, and the amounts of polluted water and waste water are decreased, which is very advantageous environmentally. |
US07892708B2 |
Mask blank substrate, mask blank, exposure mask, mask blank substrate manufacturing method, and semiconductor manufacturing method
In a mask blank substrate to be chucked by a mask stage of an exposure system, the flatness of a rectangular flatness measurement area excluding an area of 2 mm inward from an outer peripheral end surface on a main surface of the mask blank substrate on its side to be chucked by the mask stage is 0.6 μm or less, and at least three of four corner portions of the flatness measurement area each have a shape that rises toward the outer peripheral side. |
US07892707B2 |
Scattering bar OPC application method for sub-half wavelength lithography patterning
A method of forming a mask having optical proximity correction features, which includes the steps of obtaining a target pattern of features to be imaged, expanding—the width of the features to be imaged, modifying the mask to include assist features which are placed adjacent the edges of the features to be imaged, where the assist features have a length corresponding to the expanded width of the features to be imaged, and returning the features to be imaged from the expanded width to a width corresponding to the target pattern. |
US07892705B2 |
Photomask and method of making thereof
The disclosure is related to photomasks used in photolithography and methods of making photomasks. The method involves providing a transparent substrate with one or more reflective films disposed over a surface of the substrate, applying a photoresist to the solution-contacted reflective film and forming a pattern in the photoresist that is transferred to the substrate, and developing the pattern on the substrate by removing the remaining portions of the photoresist. The substrate carrying the patterned reflective film is then contacted with a solution comprising oxyanions. The disclosure is also related to photomasks made using the disclosed method. |
US07892703B2 |
CPL mask and a method and program product for generating the same
A method of generating a mask for printing a pattern including a plurality of features. The method includes the steps of obtaining data representing the plurality of features; and forming at least one of the plurality of features by etching a substrate to form a mesa and depositing a chrome layer over the entire upper surface of the mesa, where said mesa has a predetermined height. |
US07892699B2 |
Flow field plates for fuel cells
This invention provides a type of cathode flow field plate for fuel cells. The cathode flow field plate comprises a cooling flow field and a reacting flow field, gas entrances, gas exits and plate ribs. Here, an end of said flow field is connected to the gas entrances. The other end is connected to the gas exits. Said cooling flow field comprises of a distributing rib. Said distributing rib is located between the gas entrances and the gas exits. There are connecting pores between said gas entrances and the distributing rib. The cathode flow field plate for fuel cells provided in this invention uses the distributing rib and the connecting pores to divide the gas into cooling gas and reacting gas. Since a single gas source is used, the only parameter subject to adjustment is the total amount of gas flow. Thus the control of the gases is relatively simple. The devices controlling the sources of the cooling gas and the reacting gas can be minimized. Therefore, the fuel cells using the flow field plate provided in this invention can be low in cost. |
US07892698B2 |
Electrically conductive fuel cell contact material
A multilayer contact approach for use in a planar solid oxide fuel cell stack includes at least 3 layers of an electrically conductive perovskite which has a coefficient of thermal expansion closely matching the fuel cell material. The perovskite material may comprise La1-x Ex Co0.6Ni0.4O3 where E is a alkaline earth metal and x is greater than or equal to zero. The middle layer is a stress relief layer which may fracture during thermal cycling to relieve stress, but remains conductive and prevents mechanical damage of more critical interfaces. A fuel cell stack is also disclosed, which comprises a plurality of planar interleaved fuel cells and interconnects comprising a contact layer disposed between at least one electrode of a fuel cell and an adjacent interconnect, the contact layer comprising a perovskite having the formula ABO |
US07892695B2 |
Fuel cell stack
In order to enable a fuel cell stack to be easily disassembled into a bundle of a plurality of cells and simultaneously to be handled while considering a unit cell as a unit, the fuel cell stack has a unit cell formed of an MEA and two facing separators which sandwich the MEA, and an adhesive layer for sealing a gap between the separators in the unit cell, and gaskets for sealing a gap between the unit cells, wherein each tacking force of the adhesive layer, and each gasket are different from each other depending on the position in a stacked direction of the unit cell. |
US07892693B2 |
Fuel cell planarly integrated on a monocrystalline silicon chip and process of fabrication
A fuel cell is entirely fabricated on a single monocrystalline silicon substrate, and substantially overcomes leak proofing and wafer bonding difficulties and criticalities while ensuring an intrinsic sturdiness of the planarly integrated functional structure of the fuel cell. The integrated fuel cell is formed in an oxidized porous silicon region on a monocrystalline silicon substrate that is pervious to fluid flow and is electrically nonconductive with the monocrystalline silicon substrate. |
US07892689B2 |
Pressure relief control system for a fuel cell system having a pressurized fuel flow
A fuel cell-based system includes an electromechanical pressure relief system to prevent an overpressure condition from damaging the anode circuit of a fuel cell stack or creating a hazardous environment. Upon detection of a fuel flow pressure in a fuel path between a fuel source and the fuel cell stack, the pressure relief system isolates the anode circuit from the fuel path, vents the fuel flow, and shuts down the fuel cell system. |
US07892686B2 |
Fuel cell system with integral gas and refrigerant drive device
This fuel cell system is equipped with a fuel cell having a reaction gas flow passage, generating power by the reaction gas being supplied to the reaction gas flow passage, having a refrigerant flow passage, and cooled by the refrigerant being supplied to the refrigerant flow passage; a reaction gas supply device for supplying the reaction gas to the reaction gas flow passage; a refrigerant supply device for supplying the refrigerant to the refrigerant flow passage; a refrigerant supply restriction device for restricting a refrigerant supply amount to the refrigerant flow passage; and a controller for controlling the refrigerant supply restriction device, wherein the reaction gas refrigerant supply devices have a drive device in common and are integrally driven, and wherein when warming up the fuel cell, the controller controls the refrigerant supply restriction device and reduces the refrigerant supply amount to the refrigerant flow passage. |
US07892685B2 |
Fuel cell system
A multi-unit fuel cell system that includes a common-use reforming unit configured to supply hydrogen to multiple fuel cell units that are installed in multiple units, such as apartments within an apartment building. In one example embodiment, a fuel cell system including a common-use reforming unit and multiple fuel cell units is disclosed. The common-use reforming unit is configured to supply hydrogen to the plurality of fuel cell units. Each fuel cell unit includes a stack unit, an air supplying unit, an integral heat exchange unit, a hot-water supplying unit, an auxiliary heat supplying unit, and an electric output unit. |
US07892682B2 |
Fuel cell system and method for controlling air-flow rate therein
A fuel cell system includes: a fuel cell for generating electricity using a chemical reaction between hydrogen and air supplied thereto; a diluter for diluting hydrogen discharged from the fuel cell with air discharged from the fuel cell; a request load air amount calculation unit for calculating an amount of air required for generating electricity in the fuel cell which meets request load; a dilution air amount calculation unit for calculating an amount of air to be supplied to the fuel cell that provides an amount of discharged gas required for diluting hydrogen in the diluter to a specific concentration; and an air supply control unit for supplying air to the fuel cell in an amount which is the larger amount selected from between the amount of air calculated in the request load air amount calculation unit and the amount of air calculated in the dilution air amount calculation unit. |
US07892681B2 |
System of distributed electrochemical cells integrated with microelectronic structures
An electrochemical cell includes an anode half-cell and a cathode half-cell. A separator, such as a membrane, is formed between the two half-cells, and a gate electrode may be configured to influence the properties of the separator. Electricity is generated by flowing a liquid fuel through conduits, while applying an electric field to the gated membrane such that the membrane conducts protons. Complementary half cell reactions take place at an anode and a cathode. |
US07892679B2 |
Non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery
The non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery of the present invention uses, as the positive electrode active material, a mixture of a lithium-containing transition metal oxide LiaNixMnyO2 (wherein a, x, and y respectively satisfy the following relations: 1 |
US07892667B2 |
Battery security device
A battery security device includes a holder, a cover and at least one flexible plate. The holder contains the battery. The cover slips to set on the holder and has at least one raised lump to press the flexible plate. The flexible plate is set between the holder and the cover and has at least one elastic arm. The elastic arm has a stressed portion and at least one contact portion. When the cover slips to set on the holder, the raised lump presses down the stressed portion to increase the pressure of the elastic arm for avoiding power failure caused of the battery be shook. Further the device to fix a battery does not increase the force of setting the cover and not need any other component. To sum up, the device to fix a battery of present invention has low cost and friendly use. |
US07892665B2 |
Direct methanol fuel cell liquid fuel with methanol and water, direct methanol fuel cell cartridge, and direct methanol fuel cell system
A direct methanol fuel cell liquid fuel including methanol and water to be supplied to an anode of a direct methanol fuel cell, in which an electrical resistance of the liquid fuel is 5×105 Ω·cm or more and 1×107 Ω·cm or less at 25° C. A direct methanol fuel cell cartridge storing the direct methanol fuel cell liquid fuel, and a direct methanol fuel cell system. Such structures can provide a direct methanol fuel cell liquid fuel, a direct methanol fuel cell cartridge, and a direct methanol fuel cell system all appropriately used for stable electricity generation over a long period of time. |
US07892664B2 |
Magnetic recording media having a chemically ordered magnetic layer
A thin film structure having a magnetic layer and a seed layer positioned adjacent to the magnetic layer is provided. The seed layer includes a L10 structure. |
US07892663B2 |
Perpendicular magnetic recording media and magnetic storage apparatus using the same
Embodiments of the present invention provide a perpendicular magnetic recording media having excellent resolution, signal to noise ratio (S/N), and a small adjacent track erasure. According to one embodiment, underlayers for controlling the orientation and segregation of a magnetic layer, a magnetic layer including an oxide and an alloy of magnetic materials mainly composed of Co, Cr, and Pt, and a ferromagnetic-metal layer which does not contain oxygen, are formed over a substrate. The magnetic layer has at least two layers including ferromagnetic grains and oxides, a first magnetic layer, which is the part of the magnetic layer closer to the substrate, has grain boundaries mainly composed of Cr oxide and at least one oxide selected from Si, Ti, Nb, and Ta, and grain boundaries of a second magnetic layer at the ferromagnetic-metal layer side includes at least one oxide selected from Si, Ti, Nb, and Ta in which Cr oxide is less than the first magnetic layer. |
US07892658B2 |
Compound and organic light emitting device using the same
Disclosed is an organic light emitting device. The organic light emitting device comprises a first electrode, organic material layer(s) comprising a light emitting layer, and a second electrode. The first electrode, the organic material layer(s), and the second electrode form layered structure and at least one layer of the organic material layer(s) include the compound of Formula 1 or the compound of Formula 1 into which a thermosetting or photo-crosslinkable functional group is introduced. |
US07892647B2 |
Interlayers comprising stabilized infrared absorbing agents
The present invention is in the field of polymer sheets and multiple layer glazing panels comprising infrared absorbing agents, and, more specifically, the present invention is in the field of polymer sheets and multiple layer glazing panels comprising infrared absorbing agents that selectively absorb infrared radiation. In various embodiments of the present invention, an interlayer includes lanthanum hexaboride, which effectively absorbs infrared radiation at about 1,000 nanometers, and an epoxy, which stabilizes the lanthanum hexaboride agent. |
US07892643B2 |
Metal and oxides thereof and methods to make same
Metal oxides and metals are described. The metal oxides and metals, such as silica, are preferably obtained by removing a removable template to obtain a metal oxide or metal material. Applications and uses of the material are further described. |
US07892635B2 |
Precursors for porous low-dielectric constant materials for use in electronic devices
Precursors are provided for dielectric compositions that are useful in the manufacture of electronic devices such as integrated circuit devices and integrated circuit packaging devices. The dielectric compositions are prepared by crosslinking a thermally decomposable porogen to a host polymer via a coupling agent, followed by heating to a temperature suitable to decompose the porogen. The porous materials that result have dielectric constants of less than 2.4. |
US07892632B2 |
Metallized fibers and method therefor
This invention pertains to a product and a method for preparing same. The product is an electrically conducting metallized fibers and a non-conducting composite containing the metallized fibers. In a preferred embodiment, the product is a composite of metallized cellulose fibers disposed in an electrically non-conducting matrix. The method includes the steps of hydrating cellulose fibers to prevent absorption of chemical reagents; activating the cellulose surface of the fibers for metal deposition; removing from the fibers excess activator and reagents used in the activation; drying the fibers to a free-flowing condition whereby the fibers acquire the color of the activator by virtue of its deposition on the fibers; metallizing the fibers to deposit thereon a metal capable of absorbing electromagnetic radiation; drying the metallized fibers whereby they are free-flowing; and forming a composite composed of an electrically non-conductive matrix having dispersed therein the matallized fibers. |
US07892628B2 |
Image sensor and method for manufacturing the same
An image sensor includes a color filter, an over-coating layer formed on the color filter, and a medium layer formed on the over-coating layer, wherein the medium layer is configured with at least two medium layers of which refractive indices are different from each other. |
US07892627B2 |
Pattern transferable to skin for optical measurements during shaving
A system for measuring 3D deformation and strain on the skin of a living person. A non contact optical 3D deformation measuring system is provided having a plurality of high resolution digital cameras for measuring 3D coordinates and 3D deformations operatively connected to a computer. A removable tattoo is also provided including a substrate and a pattern having a plurality of indicia distributed to form a pattern density of between about 40% and about 60%. The removable tattoo provides a reference marking for the non contact optical 3D deformation measuring system. |
US07892624B2 |
Molded coarse particle product for use as housewares, furniture or architectural components or the like
A molded coarse particle product adapted for use as housewares, furniture or architectural components or the like preferentially made from coarse wood particles, flakes or chips, or any other suitable castable particulate materials such as glass, dried grass, plastic, shell particles or a combination thereof admixed and bonded together with an adhesive binder and lightly pressed into a mold preferably manually, together with a reinforcing means. The resulting surface texture of the cast product has the natural or original characteristics of the preferred particles comprising thereof such that it looks as natural as the said particles when viewed collectively together in plurality, and the quality and degree of roughness being defined by the natural features of said particles. |
US07892623B2 |
Honeycomb structured body, manufacturing device of honeycomb structured body and manufacturing method of honeycomb structured body
A honeycomb structured body of the present invention is a honeycomb structured body in which plural pillar-shaped honeycomb units are bonded to one another through sealing material layers, each unit having in the longitudinal direction a large number of cells placed in parallel with a cell wall interposed therebetween. Herein, each honeycomb unit includes inorganic fibers and/or whiskers in addition to inorganic particles. A cross-sectional area of the honeycomb unit on a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is at least about 5 cm2 and at most about 50 cm2. A region in which a sealing material layer is not formed is provided on both ends of the side faces of each of the honeycomb unit, each of the ends accounting for at least about 0.3% and at most about 5% of the length of the honeycomb structured body. |
US07892620B2 |
Information recording medium and method for manufacturing thereof
There is provided a dielectric material containing no sulfur (S), and there is provided an information recording medium that affords high signal quality and excellent recording sensitivity and repeated rewrite characteristics, even though no interface layer is provided between a reflective layer and a dielectric layer. To this end, the present invention is an information recording medium that is equipped with at least a recording layer and undergoes phase change when the recording layer is irradiated with a laser beam or when current is applied, comprising an oxide-fluoride dielectric layer that includes indium (In), an element M1 (where M1 is at least one element selected from among Zr, Hf, Y, Ti, Nb, Ta, Cr, Ga, and Si), oxygen (O), an element M2 (where M2 is at least one element selected from among La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Yb, Mg, Ca, and Sr), and fluorine (F). |
US07892617B2 |
Panel, in particular for floor covering
Disclosed is a surface covering panel including a first edge with a groove inclusive first coupling means, a second opposite edge with a tongue inclusive second coupling means, the coupling means enabling coupling of two panels, a mechanical locking means integrated into at least one of the coupling means which, when two panels are coupled, is configured to prevent these panels from moving apart, the coupling means being designed for coupling essentially without elastic deformation, wherein at least one part of the surface of at least one of the coupling means includes a repositionable adhesive configured to create bonds between the coupling means that are multiply breakable and re-bondable, wherein a breaking of the bonds on disassembly of the panels results in a chemical click designed to indicate decoupling to a user. |
US07892611B2 |
Plasma generating electrode assembly
A plasma glow discharge and/or dielectric barrier discharge generating assembly (1) comprising at least one pair of substantially equidistant spaced apart electrodes (2), the spacing between the electrodes being adapted to form a plasma zone (8) upon the introduction of a process gas and enabling passage, where required, of gaseous, liquid and/or solid precursor(s) characterized in that at least one of the electrodes (2) comprises a housing (20) having an inner (5) and outer (6) wall, wherein the inner wall (5) is formed from a non-porous dielectric material, and which housing (20) substantially retains an at least substantially non-metallic electrically conductive material. |
US07892610B2 |
Method and system for printing aligned nanowires and other electrical devices
Methods and systems for applying nanowires and electrical devices to surfaces are described. In a first aspect, at least one nanowire is provided proximate to an electrode pair. An electric field is generated by electrodes of the electrode pair to associate the at least one nanowire with the electrodes. The electrode pair is aligned with a region of the destination surface. The at least one nanowire is deposited from the electrode pair to the region. In another aspect, a plurality of electrical devices is provided proximate to an electrode pair. An electric field is generated by electrodes of the electrode pair to associate an electrical device of the plurality of electrical devices with the electrodes. The electrode pair is aligned with a region of the destination surface. The electrical device is deposited from the electrode pair to the region. |
US07892608B2 |
Method and device for digitally coating textile
A method is disclosed for digitally forming a coating on a fibrous textile having mesh openings between adjacent fibers. According to the method, textile is fed continuously along a treatment path having a row of static coating nozzles arranged generally transversely across the path. The coating nozzles have outlet diameters of greater than about 70 microns and are supplied with a supply of a coating substance. By individually controlling the nozzles, a substantially continuous stream of droplets of the coating substance is produced and selectively directed onto the textile to form a coating of pixels. Each pixel covers at least four mesh openings and has a diameter of more than 100 microns. |
US07892607B2 |
Multilayer film, electrooptic device, electronic apparatus, and process for forming multilayer film
A process for forming a multilayer film includes (a) discharging a first functional liquid containing a first functional material on a substrate by a droplet discharge method to form a lower layer, (b) solidifying the first functional liquid on the substrate to form a solid lower layer containing the first functional material, (c) forming a liquid layer containing the first functional material on the solid lower layer, (d) discharging a second functional liquid containing a second functional material on the liquid layer and the solid lower layer by the droplet discharge method to form an upper layer, and (e) solidifying the liquid layer and the second functional liquid to form a solid upper layer. |
US07892605B2 |
High-strength quenched formed body with good corrosion resistance and process for producing the same
A high-strength quenched formed body containing a layer on the surface of an after-quenching formed-body steel material in which layer Zn is a major component and which layer contains 30% by mass or less of Fe, and which layer is present in an amount of 30 g/m2 or more. A quenched formed body is produced by quenching a zinc-plated steel material which includes a zinc-plated layer containing each of Al and Si having alloying-retarding function and readily-oxidizing function independently or compositely, in an amount of 0.15% by mass or more, after heating it to 800° C. or more and 950° C. or less in an oxidizing atmosphere containing 0.1% by volume or more of oxygen. |
US07892601B1 |
Corrosion inhibiting powders and processes employing powders
A corrosion inhibiting agent is provided as a finely ground powder that is dispensed into a sheath or other casing enclosing a metal bar, cable, or other tension member. The agents are produced by preparing salts of amines with benzoic acid or nitric acid, drying the salts, and grinding and screening the salts to provide a desired maximum particle size. Also disclosed is a dry fogging process through which the powder is applied to metal tension members enclosed in polymeric sheaths or other fluid tight casings. |
US07892596B2 |
Nanoparticle coating process for fuel cell components
A process including coating a fuel cell component using a coating solution including nanoparticles. |
US07892595B2 |
Implantable device coating system and method
An implantable device coating system method includes providing the implantable device having an exterior surface, the exterior surface including a plurality of pores in fluidic communication with an ambient environment. The method further includes applying a coating including a therapeutic solution to the exterior surface and the pores, and vibrating the implantable device with a sonic wave for a predetermined time using at least one predetermined frequency. |
US07892594B2 |
Enhanced bio-assays by using gradient nanotopgraphy
A system and method for using gradient nanotopography to increase mammalian cell attachment and cell confinement on surfaces. A surface platform consisting of a thin film of gold possessing a gradient of topography on the surface and self-assembled monolayers of alkanethiols presenting desired functional groups is formed. A gradient in the chemical properties is induced in the terminal groups of the monolayer because of the continuous increase in the surface area and the anisotropy of gold film structure. The gradient nanotopraphy provides simultaneous control of two key properties, the presentation of the terminal functional groups and a continuous increase in the surface density of functional groups on the surface. This control provides for drug screening assays using adherent cell-based experiments. |
US07892591B2 |
Protein composition and its use in restructured meat and food products
This invention relates to a protein containing composition, comprising; a protein composition, wherein at least about 75 weight % of the protein composition contains at least about 15 weight % of large pieces including protein fibers at least about 4 centimeters long, protein strands at least about 3 centimeters long, and protein chunks at least about 2 centimeters long and wherein at least about 75 weight % of the protein composition has a shear strength of at least about 1400 grams. The invention also relates to a process for preparing the protein composition. The invention further relates to a restructured meat product, or a vegetable product, or a fruit product having; a vegetable protein composition; a comminuted meat, or a comminuted vegetable, or a comminuted fruit, respectively; and water; wherein at least about 75 weight % of the protein composition contains at least about 15 weight % of large pieces including protein fibers at least about 4 centimeters long, protein strands at least about 3 centimeters long, and protein chunks at least about 2 centimeters long and wherein at least about 75 weight % of the protein composition has a shear strength of at least about 1400 grams. In another embodiment, the invention has a process for preparing the restructured meat product, or the vegetable product, or the fruit product, respectively. |
US07892588B1 |
Low-fat-low-sugar soft dough biscuit and a process for preparation thereof
A low-fat, low-sugar biscuit is provided which includes 65 to 90%, by weight, wheat flour, 3 to 7%, by weight of cereal fillers, 5 to 20%, by weight, of maltodextrin, 5 to 20%, by weight, of sugar, 3 to 10%, by weight, of fat, 0.1 to 0.5%, by weight, of a hydrocolloid, 0.1 to 2.0%, by weight, of emulsifiers, with the remainder being flavoring agents, food grade additives and food preservatives and for process of preparing same. |
US07892579B2 |
Plant extraction using nonlinear vibration
The invention discloses an extraction method and the apparatus thereof. The method according to the invention comprises the following steps: crushing and soaking the raw material, and then extracting, wherein the extracting step is carried out under a 18-33 kHz nonlinear vibration, using water as solvent, under 25-35 MPa pressure and at 0-50° C. temperature, thus obtaining a extract which contains the active components of the raw material. The method according to the invention also provides an apparatus for the nonlinear critical extraction. The applications of the method and apparatus according to the invention allow to extract the Chinese traditional medicines and plants at room temperature, thus not only ensuring the biological activity of the components in the medicines and plants, but achieving the substantial full-composition extraction of the Chinese traditional medicine and plants, as well as overcoming the disadvantages of the extract technology in the prior art which would destroy or partially extract the biological activities of partial components. Therefore, the method and apparatus of the invention can be widely used in the fields such as the Chinese traditional medicines, chemical engineering, food, etc. |
US07892578B2 |
Treatment of hematologic disorders
The inventors have discovered that hematologic disorders, e.g., both neoplastic (hematologic cancers) and non-neoplastic conditions, can be treated by the induction of mixed chimerism using myeloreductive, but not myeloablative, conditioning. Methods of the invention reduce GVHD, especially GVHD associated with mismatched allogeneic or xenogeneic donor tissue, yet provide, for example, significant graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) effect and the like. |
US07892577B2 |
Bone graft materials derived from mineralized gelatin
The present invention provides novel methods of forming mineralized gelatin carriers from bone. The present invention further provides mineralized gelatin carriers themselves; bone products that include such mineralized gelatin carriers including DBM bone products; and kits that include mineralized gelatin carriers formed from bone. The present invention further provides methods for making DBM bone products, wherein both the DBM and a mineralized gelatin carrier for the DBM are derived independently from a bone lot. |
US07892575B2 |
Orodispersible pharmaceutical composition for oromucosal or sublingual administration of agomelatine
The invention relates to a coated solid orodispersible pharmaceutical composition for the administration of agomelatine by the oral, oromucosal or sublingual route. |
US07892573B2 |
Nerve regeneration employing keratin biomaterials
A keratin hydrogel matrix serves as an effective acellular scaffold for axonal regeneration and facilitates functional nerve recovery. |
US07892570B2 |
Cosmetic foundation
A cosmetic composition is provided comprising: (a) metal oxide particles; and (b) cross-linked, non-emulsifying organopolysiloxane elastomer, wherein organo-functionalised silicone fibrils are bonded to and extend away from the surface of the metal oxide particles. |
US07892569B2 |
Methods of altering an immune response induced by CpG oligodeoxynucleotides
It is disclosed herein that agents that affect the activity and/or expression of CXCL16 can be used to alter the uptake of D-type CpG oligodeoxynucleotides (D ODNs). Methods of inducing an immune response are disclosed that include administering agents that increase the activity and/or expression of CXCL16 and a D ODN. Methods of decreasing an immune response to a CpG ODN are also disclosed. These methods include administering an agent that decreases the activity and/or expression of CXCL16. Compositions including one or more D-type ODNs and an agent that modulates that activity and/or expression of CXCL16 are provided. |
US07892566B2 |
Immunogenic constructs
The present invention relates to molecules, which can be used to induce a therapeutic or prophylactic immune response against MAP. In particular, the present invention relates to polypeptides comprising an alipC polypeptide sequence, a gsd polypeptide sequence, a pl2 polypeptide sequence and an mpa polypeptide sequence, wherein said ahpC polypeptide comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2, a variant thereof having more than 70% amino acid sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 2 across the full length of SEQ ID NO: 2, or a fragment of at least 8 amino acids of SEQ ID NO: 2 which comprises an epitope; said gsd polypeptide comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 6, a variant thereof having more than 70% amino acid sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 6 across the full length of SEQ ID NO: 6, or a fragment of at least 8 amino acids of SEQ ID NO: 6 which comprises an epitope; said pi 2 polypeptide comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 10, a variant thereof having more than 70% amino acid sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 10 across the full length of SEQ ID NO: 10, or a fragment of at least 8 amino acids of SEQ ID NO: 10 which comprises an epitope; and said mpa polypeptide comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 14, a variant thereof having more than 70% amino acid sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 14 across the full length of SEQ ID NO: 14, or a fragment of at least 8 amino acids of SEQ ID NO: 14 which comprises an epitope. Preferably such a variant maintains the ability to generate an immune response against the unmodified polypeptide. |
US07892565B2 |
Degradable clostridial toxins
The specification discloses modified Clostridial toxins comprising a PAR ligand domain, a Clostridial toxin enzymatic domain, a Clostridial toxin translocation domain and a Clostridial toxin binding domain; polynucleotide molecules encoding modified Clostridial toxins comprising a PAR ligand domain, a Clostridial toxin enzymatic domain, a Clostridial toxin translocation domain and a Clostridial toxin binding domain; and method of producing modified Clostridial toxins comprising a PAR ligand domain, a Clostridial toxin enzymatic domain, a Clostridial toxin translocation domain and a Clostridial toxin binding domain. |
US07892560B2 |
Clostridial toxin derivatives able to modify peripheral sensory afferent functions
This invention describes a novel agent for the targeted control of a mammalian cell activity, in particular the agent is used to control the interaction of particular cell types with their external environment. The agent has applications as a pharmaceutical for the treatment of a variety of disorders. An agent according to the invention comprises three Domains B, T and E linked together in the following manner: Domain B-Domain T-Domain E where Domain B is the Binding Domain which binds the agent to a Binding Site on the cell which undergoes endocytosis to produce an endosome, Domain T is the Translocation Domain which translocates the agent (with or without the Binding Site) from within the endosome across the endosomal membrane into the cytosol of the cell, Domain E is the Effector Domain which inhibits the ability of the Recyclable Membrane Vesicles to transport the Integral Membrane Proteins to the surface of the cell. |
US07892558B2 |
Isolated TNF-alpha peptide and pharmaceutical composition thereof
The present invention relates to peptides derived from the proinflammatory cytokines, interleukin-1β, (IL1β) and tumor necrosis factor α, (TNFα), and their use in human or veterinary therapy, such as to generally treat diseases linked to the overproduction of IL1β or TNFα as well as acute or chronic inflammatory diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, septic shock, autoimmune diabetes, graft rejection in the host, etc. |
US07892554B2 |
Internalizing ErbB2 antibodies
This invention provides novel erbB2-binding internalizing antibodies. The antibodies, designated F5 and C1, specifically bind to c-erbB2 antigen and, upon binding, are readily internalized into the cell bearing the c-erbB2 marker. Chimeric molecules comprising the F5 and/or C1 antibodies attached to one or more effector molecules are also provided. |
US07892551B2 |
Antibody kit for enumeration of CD4+ lymphocytes
The invention provides a method of enumerating the number of cells of a cell type in a cell sample by (a) counting the white blood cells in the cell sample to obtain the white blood cell population of the sample; (b) determining the proportion or percentage of the cells of the cell type in the white blood cell population in the sample; and (c) calculating the number of cells of the cell type in the sample. The cell type may be a lymphocyte sub-set selected from the group comprising CD4+ lymphocytes, CD 45 cells, CD19 cells, CD16 and CD56 positive cells, CD8 cells, CD3 cells or any combination thereof. The method is particularly useful in monitoring the immune status of a patient infected with HIV or other immune deficiency state or disease or condition where CD4+ lymphocytes or CD4+ T cells are monitored or counted. The invention also provides a kit comprising antibodies necessary for carrying out said cell enumeration. |
US07892548B2 |
121P1F1: a tissue specific protein highly expressed in various cancers
A novel gene (designated 121P1F1) and its encoded protein are described. While 121P1F1 exhibits tissue specific expression in normal adult tissue, it is aberrantly expressed in multiple cancers including prostate, bladder, kidney, brain, bone, cervical, uterine, ovarian, breast, pancreatic, stomach, colon, rectal, leukocytic, liver and lung cancers. Consequently, 121P1F1 provides a diagnostic and/or therapeutic target for cancers, and the 121P1F1 gene or fragment thereof, or its encoded protein or a fragment thereof used to elicit an immune response. |
US07892547B2 |
Methods and compositions for administering therapeutic and diagnostic agents
Methods and compositions are described for targeting therapeutic and diagnostic molecules to particular types of cells using targeting antibodies or other targeting moeities. |
US07892543B2 |
Reshaped human anti-HM 1.24 antibody
The invention provides a reshaped human anti-HM 1.24 antibody having: (A) an L chain having (1) the C region of a human L chain, and (2) the V region of an L chain having the FR of a human L chain and the CDR of the L chain of a mouse anti-HM 1.24 monoclonal antibody; and (B) an H chain having (1) the C region of a human H chain, and (2) the V region of an H chain having the FR of a human H chain and the CDR of the H chain of a mouse anti-HM 1.24 monoclonal antibody. This reshaped human antibody is derived from human antibody and the CDR has a low antigenicity, and the reshaped human antibody of the present invention has a low antigenicity and can be used for medical treatment. |
US07892541B1 |
Soluble epidermal growth factor receptor isoforms
Embodiments of the present invention relate to p110 soluble EGFR (p110 sEGFR) peptides and nucleic acid sequences. Antibodies, methods of detection, kits, and expression vectors for p110 sEGFR are disclosed. In addition, assays on biological samples for determining and evaluating risk assessment and cancer prevention, screening and early detection, diagnosis, prognosis, theragnosis, monitoring of responsiveness to treatment, and monitoring of disease progression, recurrence, or metastasis of a cancer, are disclosed. In examples, a lower p110 sEGFR concentration adjusted for demographical and physiological variables and other biomarkers is associated with cancer. Therapeutics and methods of treating a cancer related to p110 sEGFR also are embodied herein. |
US07892537B1 |
High activity mutants of butyrylcholinesterase for cocaine hydrolysis
Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) polypeptide variants of the presently-disclosed subject matter have enhanced catalytic efficiency for (−)-cocaine, as compared to wild-type BChE. Pharmaceutical compositions of the presently-disclosed subject matter include a BChE polypeptide variant having an enhanced catalytic efficiency for (−)-cocaine. A method of the presently-disclosed subject matter for treating a cocaine-induced condition includes administering to an individual an effective amount of a BChE polypeptide variant, as disclosed herein, to lower blood cocaine concentration. |
US07892533B2 |
Modified vaccinia virus ankara for the vaccination of neonates
The invention relates inter alia to a method for inducing a long-term protection in an animal against foreign antigens and tumor antigens comprising the step of administering to the animal at least one factor selected from type I interferons and Flt-3, and to a method for inducing a long-term increase of the number of dendritic cells in an animal comprising the step of administering to the animal a factor selected from type I interferon and Flt-3 and to a method of inducing or enhancing the maturation and/or for the activation of the immune system of an animal comprising the step of administering to the animal a factor selected from type I interferon and Flt-3. |
US07892531B2 |
HSA-free formulations of interferon-β
Stabilized pharmaceutical compositions comprising substantially monomeric interferon-beta (IFN-β) and methods useful in their preparation are provided. The compositions comprise the IFN-β solubilized in a low-ionic-strength formulation that maintains the composition at a pH of about 3.0 to about 5.0. Methods for preparing these compositions, and for increasing solubility of IFN-β in pharmaceutical compositions, are provided. |
US07892530B2 |
Treatment of tumor metastases and cancer
Tumor metastases in cancer patients are inhibited by administration of a combination therapy including effective amounts of Interleukin-2 and a methylol transfer agent such as taurolidine, taurultam or mixtures thereof. |
US07892528B2 |
Controlling bedbugs with synthetic pheromones and/or infrared radiation
Disclosed are methods for attracting and thereby controlling bedbugs. One volatizes a synthetic pheromone and generates infrared radiation adjacent the location and exposes bedbugs thereto. The pheromone volatizer and/or radiation generator are preferably incorporated into traps, bait stations and monitoring stations. |
US07892518B2 |
Method of fluorination
A method of fluorination comprising reacting monosaccharides, oligosaccharides, polysaccharides, composite saccharides formed by bonding of these saccharides with proteins and lipids and saccharides having polyalcohols, aldehydes, ketones and acids of the polyalcohols, and derivatives and condensates of these compounds with a fluorinating agent represented by general formula (I) thermally or under irradiation with microwave or an electromagnetic wave having a wavelength around the microwave region. In accordance with the method, the fluorination at a selected position can be conducted safely at a temperature in the range of 150 to 200° C. where the reaction is difficult in accordance with conventional methods. The above method comprising the irradiation with microwave or an electromagnetic wave having a wavelength around the microwave region can be applied to substrates other than saccharides. When a complex compound comprising HF and a base is reacted under irradiation with microwave, fluorination at a specific position which is difficult in accordance with conventional methods proceeds highly selectively, efficiently in a short time and safely. |
US07892515B2 |
Making mesoporous carbon with tunable pore size
Carbon with mesopores (about two to fifteen nanometers in average pore size) is made using sucrose as a source of carbon, and silica and phosphoric acid as templates for the mesopore structure in the carbon. A silica sol is prepared in a water/ethanol medium and sucrose is dispersed in the sol. Phosphoric acid may be added to the sol to control pore size in the mesopore size range. The sol is dried, carbonized, and the silica and phosphate materials removed by leaching. The residue is a mesoporous carbon mass having utility as a catalyst support, gas absorbent, and the like. |
US07892514B2 |
Method of producing nano-scaled graphene and inorganic platelets and their nanocomposites
Disclosed is a method of exfoliating a layered material (e.g., graphite and graphite oxide) to produce nano-scaled platelets having a thickness smaller than 100 nm, typically smaller than 10 nm, and often between 0.34 nm and 1.02 nm. The method comprises: (a) subjecting the layered material in a powder form to a halogen vapor at a first temperature above the melting point or sublimation point of the halogen at a sufficient vapor pressure and for a duration of time sufficient to cause the halogen molecules to penetrate an interlayer space of the layered material, forming a stable halogen-intercalated compound; and (b) heating the halogen-intercalated compound at a second temperature above the boiling point of the halogen, allowing halogen atoms or molecules residing in the interlayer space to exfoliate the layered material to produce the platelets. Alternatively, rather than heating, step (a) is followed by a step of dispersing the halogen-intercalated compound in a liquid medium which is subjected to ultrasonication for exfoliating the halogen-intercalated compound to produce the platelets, which are dispersed in the liquid medium. The halogen can be readily captured and re-used, thereby significantly reducing the impact of halogen to the environment. The method can further include a step of dispersing the platelets in a polymer or monomer solution or suspension as a precursor step to nanocomposite fabrication. |
US07892510B2 |
Silicon dioxide dispersion
Stable, aqueous dispersion containing silicon dioxide powder having a hydroxyl group density of 2.5 to 4.7 OH/nm2, which is obtained from a silicon dioxide powder produced by a flame hydrolysis process under acid conditions. The dispersion is produced by incorporating the silicon dioxide powder into an aqueous solution by means of a dispersing device. The dispersion can be used to produce glass articles. |
US07892509B2 |
System and method for recovering CO2
A CO2 recovery system includes an absorption tower that receives CO2-containing gas and CO2-absorbing solution, and causes the CO2-containing gas to come in contact with the CO2-absorbing solution to produce CO2 rich solution, and a regeneration tower that receives the rich solution and produces lean solution from the rich solution by removing CO2 from the rich solution. A heating member is provided in the regeneration tower. The heating member heats the rich solution in the regeneration tower with steam generated when regenerating the rich solution in the regeneration tower. |
US07892507B2 |
Gas processing for catalytically oxidizing carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons in the presence of a metal/silica-containing zirconia catalyst
The processing of gases, in particular the exhaust gas of an internal combustion/diesel engine, entails catalytically oxidizing the carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons contained therein in an oxygen-rich medium, in the presence of a metal oxidation catalyst that includes a silica-containing zirconia support. |
US07892504B2 |
Pharmaceutical sample storage system
A pharmaceutical sample storage system in which the accommodation volume of a case is increased is disclosed and claimed. The molding of the storage rack is easy. The cases in the storage rack are locked in place and will not fall out even if the storage rack is turned upside down. Placing and removing cases from the storage rack is highly accurate. The sample storage system is sealed and the storage rack vertically accommodates a plurality of cases in a matrix. The cases are rectangular in cross-section and are hollow. The cases are tapered toward the bottom portion of the case and the outer surfaces of the cases are chamfered. The storage rack has a lower grate-shaped bottom portion which is partitioned by cross members. The bottom portion of the case being fitted into one partitioned portion of the grate-shaped bottom portion and has case supporting pins vertically provided upward from each intersection of gratings or cross members of the grated bottom portion. |
US07892493B2 |
Fluid sample transport device with reduced dead volume for processing, controlling and/or detecting a fluid sample
A fluid sample transport device with reduced dead volume for processing, controlling and/or detecting a fluid sample, includes a substrate having an upper surface with at least one processing, controlling and/or detecting element. At least one flexible membrane is arranged on the upper surface of the substrate. The fluid sample transport device further includes at least one plunger and/or actuating element for actuating an up and/or down movement of the flexible membrane to cause a fluid flow and/or to stop a fluid flow. A cover plate is arranged on the upper outer surface or lower outer surface of the flexible membrane. The cover plate includes at least one through going hole and/or cut-out for receiving a plunger and/or actuating element, so that movement of the plunger and/or actuating element causes a pump and/or valve action of the adjacent arranged flexible membrane area to cause a fluid flow in a channel temporally formed by expansion of the flexible membrane. The temporally formed channel is between the upper surface of the substrate and the lower surface of the flexible membrane. |
US07892490B2 |
Semiautomatic operating device for microchip
Provided is an apparatus for performing a chemical reaction using a microchip having at least one micro-channel. The device, which is a semiautomatic operating device for a microchip on which at least one micro-channel with a reagent inlet is formed, includes: a base which accommodates the microchip; a slider with injection inlets corresponding to the reagent inlets that reciprocally move parallel to the base; and a slider moving unit which selectively moves the slider to a first location at which the microchip is opened, after the injection inlet of the slider and the reagent inlet are aligned, and to a second location where the microchip is sealed by a bottom surface of the slider covering the reagent inlet. |
US07892489B2 |
Light scattering device having multi-layer micro structure
A micro structure includes a silicon substrate, an adhesion layer on the silicon substrate, a bias layer on the adhesion layer, and structure layers on the adhesion layer. The two or more structure layers comprise different material compositions and a plurality of holes through at least two of the structure layers. Widths of the plurality of holes are in the range of 0.5-500 nm. |
US07892488B2 |
Thermal liquid flow sensor and method of forming same
A thermal liquid flow sensor and method of forming same. The sensor has a substrate and one or more sensing elements, disposed on the substrate, for sensing a property of a liquid. The liquid flow sensor, which can be for example a microsensor having a microbrick® structure, has a hydrophilic layer which is disposed on the substrate and covers the sensing element(s). The hydrophilic layer is preferably formed from a spin on glass material, such as for example a silicate or phosphosilicate. A silicon nitride layer can be disposed on the sensing element(s) and interpose the substrate and the hydrophilic layer. The silicon nitride layer can be oxidized, for example, by means of plasma oxidation or oxygen ion implantation so to form the hydrophilic layer thereon. A variety of other hydrophilic compounds can be utilized to form the hydrophilic layer such as, gold, palladium and diamond like carbon. |
US07892481B2 |
Manufacturing method for wear resistant sintered member, sintered valve seat, and manufacturing method therefor
A manufacturing method for wear resistant sintered member is provided. The method includes: compacting a raw powder containing a matrix forming powder and a hard phase forming powder into a green compact, the matrix forming powder containing 90 mass % or more of a powder having the maximum particle diameter of 46 μm, and the hard phase forming powder being 40 to 70 mass % with respect to the raw powder; and sintering the green compact. |
US07892474B2 |
Continuous generative process for producing a three-dimensional object
The invention describes a process and a device for producing at least one three-dimensional object, a photo-polymerizable material is solidified by means of simultaneous or almost simultaneous exposure of a build area or partial build area in a building plane via electromagnetic radiation, wherein a distance between a support plate, at which the object to be generated is built, and the building plane is changed during at least one exposure phase.It is possible according to the invention to solidify the three-dimensional object in a main direction during a radiation phase exceeding a current prescribed hardening depth, without interrupting supply of electromagnetic energy during the irradiation phase. Further, it is possible to control a current hardening depth of the photopolymerizable material during a building phase. Embodiments of suitable devices are also described. |
US07892471B2 |
Wireless enabled device
The invention described herein provides an embedded wireless device such as a RFID tag molded into separate housing formed of any thermoplastic material compatible to that of the plastic material as the device to which the housing is to be attached. Subsequently, the housed tag assembly can be thermally bonded onto the device through many means which are well known and accepted in the industry. |
US07892467B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing polymer to be used at vacuum infusion
The invention relates to a method of producing a shell member of fiber composite material by means of vacuum infusion, where the fiber material is impregnated with liquid polymer, and applying a mould (18) with a mould cavity. In the mould cavity a lower distribution layer (11) is placed. A fiber insertion (1) including a plurality of fiber layers is placed above the lower distribution layer (11). A first upper distribution layer (9) and a second upper distribution layer (10) are placed at a transverse distance of each other above the fiber insertion, so that at least a part of the first distribution layer overlaps a first zone (2) of the fiber insertion (1), and at least a part of the second distribution layer overlaps a second zone (3) of the fiber insertion (1), the first zone (2) and the second zone (3) being separated by an intermediate zone (6) neither overlapping the first nor the second distribution layer (9, 10). A first inlet channel (7) is placed above the first distribution layer (9), and a second inlet channel (8) is placed on top of the second distribution layer (10). Above the intermediate zone (6) of the fiber insertion (1) a semi-permeable membrane (5) is placed, which may expand overlappingly over the first distribution layer (9) and/or the second distribution layer (10), and which is permeable to gasses and substantially impermeable to liquid polymer, said semi-permeable membrane (5) communicating with a vacuum source. Finally, in a manner known per se, a vacuum bag (19) is placed on top of the mould (18), which is evacuated of air by means of the vacuum source, and polymer is directed into the mould via the first and the second inlet channels (7, 8). The invention also relates to an apparatus for providing polymer for use with the method. |
US07892465B2 |
Method and apparatus for forming hollow moldings having thin film on inner surface
A movable mold and a slide mold are employed. There is also employed a deposition apparatus which is equipped with a deposition element such as a target electrode in the inside of a depositing chamber. A body portion and a cover member are primarily molded by the movable mold and the slide mold. The molds are opened while the body portion being left in the movable mold and while cover member being left in slide mold. The body portion left in the movable mold is deposited in the molds with its inner surface being covered with the depositing chamber. Next, the slide mold is driven so that the cover member may be registered with the deposited body portion. Then, a secondary molding resin is injected to integrate the body portion and the cover member. |
US07892464B2 |
Method for manufacturing articles in the form of slabs or blocks with acrylic binder
In the sector relating to the technology of compaction by means of vacuum vibro-compression for manufacturing slabs or blocks, the organic binder resin consists of an aqueous dispersion of acrylic prepolymer in water and a filler part consists of a hydraulic binder in an amount sufficient to fix wholly or partly the water present in the initial mix; after the vibro-compression step the rough-formed article is subjected to a hardening and curing step in conditions such as to prevent the evaporation of the mix water and subsequently to a heating step so as to obtain crosslinking of the acrylic polymer. If the acrylic binder alone is used, an article with a high degree of porosity is obtained. |
US07892463B2 |
Mold clamping force correction method for mold clamping apparatus
When variation of mold clamping force to a mold C in production is detected and the mold clamping force is corrected on the basis of the detected variation, a work load accompanying high-pressure mold clamping of a mold clamping process is used as the variation, a work load as standard (standard work load Ws) accompanying high-pressure mold clamping is preset, the work load accompanying high-pressure mold clamping of the mold clamping process (detection work load Wd) is detected as variation in production, and the mold clamping force is corrected on the basis of a deviation Ke of standard work load Ws from this detection work load Wd. |
US07892461B2 |
Method for the production and use of pigmented thermoplastic material comprising a flow enhancer in the form of a dissolved salt
Description of a method for the production of a pigmented thermoplastic material. The method characterizes that during a first step an aqueous suspension presenting a solid matter contents of approximately 10 to 75% by weight, containing at least one flow enhancer in form of dissolved salt and the pigment, is ground under alkaline conditions in a high energy charging mill by means of grinding bodies having a diameter of 0.2 to 2 mm, and the obtained grinding product is transformed during a second step with a thermoplastic material into the pigmented thermoplastic material by means of a flush process performed by a kneader or extruder, at increased temperature and a pH value of initially 7 or less. In addition, the invention concerns a pigmented thermoplastic material produced according to said method, as well as beneficial applications for production of transparent molded bodies, in particular of fibers, foils, injection moldings and extruded parts. The invention-specific method provides pigmented plastic material which can reliably be processed into high quality products. Foils which are produced accordingly are, for example, free from coloration defects. |
US07892457B2 |
Sputtering target, thin film for optical information recording medium and process for producing the same
A sputtering target is provided that has a relative density of 80% or more and contains a compound having as its principal component zinc oxide satisfying AXBYO(KaX+KbY)/2(ZnO)m, 1 |
US07892446B2 |
Ferrite material
A ferrite material in which Bi2O3 is added at 6% by weight or less, and preferably 4% by weight or less, to a ferrite of Li—Zn—(Mn, Fe) containing a specified amount of Mn. In the ferrite material, change of magnetic permeability under high external stress is extremely small, and a core loss under a compression stress is small. By using this ferrite material, an inductor and transformer having small loss even in a state of being molded with resin can be obtained. |
US07892445B1 |
Wafer electrical discharge control using argon free dechucking gas
A method of dechucking a wafer, with a low-k dielectric layer, held onto an electrostatic chuck by an electrostatic charge in a plasma chamber is provided. The electrostatic clamping voltage is removed. An essentially argon free dechucking gas is provided into the plasma chamber. A dechucking plasma is formed from the dechucking gas in the plasma chamber. The dechucking plasma is stopped. |
US07892444B2 |
Plasma processing apparatus and method for controlling the same
A method for controlling a plasma processing apparatus which includes a vacuum vessel, a first, second and third RF power supply, a first and second electrode, and a phase control unit for controlling a phase difference between a second RF voltage from the second RF power supply and a third RF voltage from the third RF power supply. The controlling method includes the steps of supplying a predetermined power from the first RF power supply to ignite plasma, after confirming ignition of plasma, supplying a predetermined power respectively from the second RF power supply and the third RF power supply, and when starting power supply from the second RF power supply and the third RF power supply, fixing the phase to a predetermined phase angle using a preset mode without carrying out phase control, and after a matching operation has stabilized, starting the phase control. |
US07892443B2 |
Method of manufacturing member with concave portions, member with concave portions, lens substrate, transmission type screen and rear projection
A method of manufacturing a member with concave portions includes preparing a base material, forming a mask formation film on the base material, forming a number of openings in the mask formation film by laser irradiation treatments using a branching filter, and etching the base material to form the concave portions in the base material. The branching filter branches laser light into first laser beams and second laser beams. Each of irradiation regions of the mask formation film sequentially is subjected to the laser irradiation treatment, so that first openings are formed by the first laser beams and second openings are formed by the second laser beams. Each of the irradiation regions has portions where no opening is formed by the first beams of the laser irradiation treatment for the irradiation region while openings will be formed by the second laser beams in one or more of the subsequent laser irradiation treatments. In the base material, concave portions for examination use are formed using some of the openings formed by the second laser beams used in the laser irradiation treatments for the specified irradiation regions. |
US07892440B1 |
Wet etching process
The present invention illustrates a bulk silicon etching technique that yields straight sidewalls, through wafer structures in very short times using standard silicon wet etching techniques. The method of the present invention employs selective porous silicon formation and dissolution to create high aspect ratio structures with straight sidewalls for through wafer MEMS processing. |
US07892436B2 |
Compositions and methods for removing arsenic in water
Compositions and methods and for contaminants from water are provided. The compositions comprise ferric hydroxide and ferric oxyhydride coated substrates for use in removing the contaminant from the water. Contacting water bearing the contaminant with the substrates can substantially reduce contaminant levels therein. Methods of oxidizing the contaminants in water to facilitate their removal by the ferric hydroxide and ferric oxyhydride coated substrates are also provided. The contaminants include, but are not limited to, arsenic, selenium, uranium, lead, cadmium, nickel, copper, zinc, chromium and vanadium, their oxides and soluble salts thereof. |
US07892431B2 |
Method and device for purification of effluent
The invention relates to a method for the purification of effluent, in particular, effluent from the paper industry, comprising the following method steps: a) aerobic purification of the effluent using activated sludge in an activated sludge tank (1), b) settling of at least a part of the effluent/activated sludge mixture exiting the activated sludge tank (1) in a settling tank (2), c) separation of a part of the effluent/activated sludge mixture exiting the settling tank in a separating device (3) and d) recycling of at least a part of the activated sludge separated off in steps b) and/or c) into the activated sludge tank (1). |
US07892429B2 |
Batch-operated reverse osmosis system with manual energization
A batch reverse osmosis system in fluid communication with a fluid reservoir and a method that includes a housing having an inlet valve in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir. The system also includes a pressure vessel having an elongated liner, a membrane disposed within a second end of the liner and having a membrane inlet, a membrane outlet disposed at the second end and a permeate outlet. The system includes a recirculation piston disposed within the first end that defines a fluid volume between the recirculation piston and the membrane adjacent to the membrane inlet. The housing and a plunger disposed within the housing define a chamber. The plunger is coupled to an actuator. The system includes a hollow pipe with a port that is coupled to the actuator. The hollow pipe communicates fluid between the chamber within the housing and the fluid volume within the pressure vessel. |
US07892426B2 |
Wastewater treatment apparatus
A reducing water purification material having a reducing iron-based precipitate selected from green rust, iron ferrite, reducing iron hydroxide, and a mixture thereof. A wastewater treatment process having steps of adding a reducing iron compound to wastewater, leading the wastewater to which the reducing iron compound is added to a reaction tank and forming a precipitate, separating the formed precipitate by a solid-liquid separation to obtain a sludge, and alkalinizing all or a portion of the separated sludge to form an alkaline sludge followed by returning to the reaction tank, wherein in the precipitation step, the wastewater to which the reducing iron compound is added and the alkaline sludge are mixed and are allowed to react in a non-oxidizing atmosphere under alkaline condition to form a reducing iron compound precipitate as the precipitate, thereby incorporating contaminants in the precipitate to remove the contaminants from the wastewater. |
US07892421B2 |
Stationary cloth media filtration and self-aligning backwash assembly
The present inventions relate to water and wastewater treatment devices including stationary cloth filter media support structures forming effluent plenums for the filtered influent and self-aligning backwash assemblies for efficient periodic cleaning of the cloth filter media. |
US07892415B2 |
Mesoporous platinum electrode and method for detecting biochemical substrate using the mesoporous platinum electrode
The present invention relates to a mesoporous platinum electrode for detecting biochemical substrate, comprising an electrode and a mesoporous platinum layer covering the surface thereof, and a method for detecting a biochemical substrate using the mesoporous platinum electrode. Using the present invention, glucose concentration can be selectively determined while excluding interference of interfering agents. |
US07892412B2 |
Manufacturing process of embedded type flexible or rigid printed circuit board
A manufacturing process of an embedded type flexible or rigid printed circuit board includes multiple steps. First, a layer of dry film is applied to a layer of copper foil. Then a circuit pattern is formed on the copper foil through photolithography processes. An etching stop layer is electroplated on the copper foil according to the circuit pattern. The etching stop layer is then electroplated with copper. The copper foil is softened by a high temperature process after removing the dry film. Then the layer of the copper foil is etched after coating with an organic layer and the organic layer is solidified. |
US07892411B2 |
Electrolytic copper plating process
Disclosed herein is an electrolytic copper plating process for electroplating copper on workpieces in a copper sulfate plating bath filled in a plating tank and containing an organic additive while using a soluble anode or insoluble anode as an anode and the workpieces as cathodes, including the steps of, setting a bath current density at not higher than 5 A/L, immersing metal copper in a region of the copper sulfate plating bath, the region being apart from a region between the anode and the cathode and also from regions adjacent the anode and cathode, respectively, such that a neighborhood of the thus-immersed metal copper can be used as an oxidative decomposition region, setting an immersed area of the metal copper at not smaller than 0.001 dm2/L based on the plating bath, and applying air bubbling to the oxidative decomposition region at not lower than 0.01 L/dm2·min based on the immersed area. |
US07892406B2 |
Ionized physical vapor deposition (iPVD) process
An iPVD system is programmed to deposit uniform material, such as barrier material, into high aspect ratio nano-size features on semiconductor substrates using a process which enhances the sidewall coverage compared to the field and bottom coverage(s) while minimizing or eliminating overhang within a vacuum chamber. The iPVD system is operated at low target power and high pressure >50 mT to sputter material from the target. RF energy is coupled into the chamber to form a high density plasma. A small RF bias (less than a few volts) can be applied to aid in enhancing the coverage, especially at the bottom. |
US07892405B1 |
Methods and apparatus for magnetron sputtering
In one embodiment, a magnetron sputtering apparatus forms a closed plasma loop and an open plasma loop within the closed plasma loop. The open plasma loop allows for relatively uniform erosion on the face of a target by broadening the sputtered area of the target. The open plasma loop may be formed and swirled using a rotating magnetic array to average the target erosion. |
US07892402B2 |
Flat woven full width on-machine-seamable fabric
A laminated on-machine-seamable industrial fabric made from a flat woven full width base fabric layer wherein the base fabric layer is folded inwardly and flattened to produce a fabric with seaming loops disposed at the two widthwise edges. |
US07892399B2 |
Local tension generating air stabilization system for web products
An air stabilization system employing two parallel, opposite-facing Coanda nozzles, with each nozzle exhausting gas at opposite directions, subjects a moving flexible web to opposing forces effective to create local tension within the web. Each nozzle includes an elongated slot that is perpendicular to the path of the moving web. The nozzles serve as separate points along the machine direction for controlling the height of the web. The operative surface with the nozzles can exhibit a flush surface. The nozzles can be formed on elevated structures on the operative surface. The operative surface can be covered with a transparent substrate to minimize shape distortions on the moving web and to prevent debris from collecting around the sensor. By modulating the velocities of gases exiting the nozzles, the shape of the web can be manipulated to present a planar contour. The air stabilization system can be incorporated into a caliper scanner. |
US07892394B2 |
Pressure-sensitive adhesive for applying optically functional film, optically functional film and production process for the same
Provided is a pressure-sensitive adhesive for an optically functional film which can carry out adhesion with a good durability in adhesion of an optically functional film such as adhesion of a polarizing plate, particularly a polarizing plate integrated with a viewing angle expanding film and the like with a liquid crystal cell, adhesion of a polarizing plate with a retardation film, adhesion of a retardation film with a retardation film and adhesion of a retardation film with a liquid crystal cell and which has the characteristics that a liquid crystal display obtained therefrom is less liable to cause light leakage even under the environment of high temperature and high humidity and that static electricity is less liable to be produced when peeling off a release film from a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.The pressure-sensitive adhesive for applying an optically functional film comprises a pressure-sensitive adhesive resin and an antistatic agent, wherein a storage elastic modulus (G′) at 23° C. is 0.3 MPa or more, and a charged voltage on the surface of a layer comprising the above pressure-sensitive adhesive which is measured 5 seconds later since peeling off a release film brought into contact with the above pressure-sensitive adhesive layer under the environment of 23° C. and a relative humidity of 50% is 1.0 kV or less. |
US07892386B2 |
Radiation-curable fluorescing compositions
The invention provides fluorescing compositions which cure by exposure to ultraviolet radiation and contain a europium compound which fluoresces at visible wavelengths. More particularly, the invention pertains to liquid, radiation-curable compositions comprising a substantially homogeneous fluid comprising, a fluorescing europium compound in an admixture of a polymerizable component and a polymerization initiator. Such find use as adhesives, coatings, and the like. |
US07892385B2 |
Adhesive member and method of manufacturing display device using the same
An adhesive member for a display device is provided. The adhesive member includes first and second adhesive layers, and coating layers. The first and second adhesive layers have different adherence characteristics. Each of the coating layers covers the first and second adhesive layer, respectively. The adherence of the second adhesive layer is stronger than that of the first adhesive layer. |
US07892382B2 |
Electroluminescent devices and methods of making electroluminescent devices including a color conversion element
An electroluminescent device, and a method of making an electroluminescent device that includes one or more color conversion elements is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes forming an electroluminescent element on a substrate, where the electroluminescent element is capable of emitting light in a narrow band. The method further includes selectively thermally transferring a plurality of color conversion elements to the electroluminescent element. In another embodiment, the method includes forming an electroluminescent element on a substrate, where the electroluminescent element is capable of emitting UV light. The method further includes selectively thermally transferring a plurality of color conversion elements to the electroluminescent element. |
US07892381B2 |
Method for forming an optical converter
A fiber optic faceplate fabricated using a series of stacked ribbon structures. Each ribbon structure comprises optical fiber segments that run from an input edge to an output edge with fixed input and output fiber-to-fiber spacing. Input and output edge spacers may be used to provide spacing between stacked ribbon structures. Ribbon structures may be provided individually or as one or more sheets of ribbon structures. |
US07892373B2 |
Adhesive for nonceramic floor coverings
Non-ceramic floor coverings are bonded to a substrate by an aqueous adhesive that comprises a synthetic polymer as a binder and hydrolyzable silane groups. |
US07892371B2 |
Foldable transaction cards and methods of making the same
Transaction cards are provided wherein the foldable transaction cards have internal hinge material disposed within the foldable transaction card and fold lines for folding the transaction cards. In addition, foldable transaction card systems are provided, whereby transaction cards, having the internal hinge material, are provided within housings, cases or carriers. Moreover, methods of making foldable transaction cards are provided. |
US07892369B2 |
Method of modifying the microstructure of titanium alloys for manufacturing orthopedic prostheses and the products thereof
A titanium alloy subjected to thermal treatment followed by quenching. The thermal treatment raises the temperature of the alloy to a temperature above the alloy's recrystallization temperature and below the alloy's beta-transus temperature to cause a phase shift within the alloy. After the thermal treatment has been applied for a predetermined time, the alloy is rapidly quenched, preserving the phase shift induced by the thermal treatment. By the present method, the microstructure of the titanium alloy is changed from a fine grained alpha-beta phase to a microstructure substantially comprised of an equiaxed alpha phase and an acicular or plate-like alpha phase. The resulting prostheses may have a microstructure including between 25% and 75% percent acicular alpha phase, for example. |
US07892365B2 |
Rare earth element-iron-boron alloy, and magnetically anisotropic permanent magnet powder and method for production thereof
A method of making a magnetically anisotropic magnet powder according to the present invention includes the steps of preparing a master alloy by cooling a rare-earth-iron-boron based molten alloy and subjecting the master alloy to an HDDR process. The step of preparing the master alloy includes the step of forming a solidified alloy layer, including a plurality of R2Fe14B-type crystals (where R is at least one element selected from the group consisting of the rare-earth elements and yttrium) in which rare-earth-rich phases are dispersed, by cooling the molten alloy through contact with a cooling member. |
US07892361B2 |
In-chamber member, a cleaning method therefor and a plasma processing apparatus
An in-chamber member to use in the chamber of a plasma processing vessel has a coating film formed by a coating agent. The in-chamber member having deposits formed on the coating film is separated from the chamber and is immersed into a peeling solvent, e.g., acetone. Since the coating agent is made of a resist formed of a main component of, e.g., cyclized rubber-bisazide and a photosensitive component, the deposits can be separated from the in-chamber member together with the coating film being separated. |
US07892359B2 |
Dishwasher in the form of a programmable machine and its operating method
A dishwasher in the form of a programmable machine, in particular a commercial dishwasher, having a pre-cleaning station, which is disposed outside a treatment chamber of the dishwasher, and having a waste water transfer system, by which washing liquid can be fed from a wash tank of the dishwasher as pre-cleaning liquid to the pre-cleaning station. |
US07892356B2 |
Diamond composite substrate and process for producing the same
It is an object of the present invention to provide a diamond substrate with high toughness, a large surface area, and high quality, for use in semiconductor materials, electronic components, optical components, and so forth, and a method for manufacturing this substrate.A diamond polycrystalline film is laminated on the surface of a diamond monocrystalline substrate to create a diamond composite substrate. In said diamond composite substrate, it is preferable that the main face, which has the largest surface area of the diamond monocrystalline substrate, be the {100} plane, and the diamond polycrystalline film be laminated on the opposite face parallel to this face. The diamond monocrystalline substrate 3 may be made up of a plurality of diamond monocrystals having the same orientation of the main face, and these plurality of diamond monocrystals may be joined by a diamond crystal layer 4 to create a diamond composite substrate 2. The diamond monocrystals may also be used as seed crystals and diamond monocrystals provided by vapor phase synthesis on the surface thereof. |
US07892354B2 |
Process for the parallel detection of crystalline forms of molecular solids
A process for the detection of polymorphic or pseudopolymorphic forms of solid, molecular and crystallizing compounds, or of molecular, cocrystalline compounds or of solid solutions which consist of at least two solid, molecular and crystallizing compounds, in a series investigation using an apparatus for parallel investigations in vessels of an array under different conditions in each vessel, in which substantially only the amorphous form of the crystallizing compound, a solvate of the crystallizing compound or substantially only the amorphous form or a solvate of a compound in a mixture of at least two compounds is used as a suspension or solution, the solutions of amorphous compound having, at the same temperature, a higher content of crystallizable compounds than is achievable with a corresponding crystalline compound. |
US07892351B1 |
Composition of materials and processes for making boroncitrates to create cements with field adjustable set times
A family of compounds has been developed containing a substantial quantity of boron in solution with other beneficial ingredients that has been heretofore unobtainable. These compounds are named and referred to herein as “Boroncitrates”. The individual Boroncitrates are: boron lithium citrate (BLiCit), boron potassium citrate (BKCit) and boron sodium citrate (BNaCit). These Boroncitrates can be used individually or in combination with one another. Alkali metals such as rubidium, cesium and francium could also be made into Boroncitrates; but, there is no advantage in using these very scarce and much more expensive alkali metals.Use of Boroncitrates provides a new and improved means for hydraulic cementitious compositions to take set faster or slower, as determined by the user and as the individual jobsite needs dictate; thereby providing the long-sought, unfulfilled flexibility required by today's rapidly expanding concrete industry. As discussed herein, the application and use of Boroncitrates can provide beneficial improvement in many hydraulic cement varieties, such as, but not limited to, Portland Cement, class C fly ash and blended hydraulic cements containing combinations of the above. |
US07892349B2 |
Sacrificial agents for fly ash concrete
A method of producing cementitious mixtures containing fly ash as one of the cementitious components, under air entrainment conditions. The method involves forming a mixture comprising water, cement, fly ash, optionally other cementitious materials, aggregate, conventional chemical admixtures, and an air entrainment agent and agitating the mixture to entrain air therein. Additionally, at least one sacrificial agent is also included in the mixture. The sacrificial agent is a material or mixture of materials that is not required to act as an air entrainment agent but interacts preferentially with components of the fly ash that otherwise neutralize, repress or depress the activity of the air entrainment agent. The invention includes cementitious mixtures and hardened concretes resulting from the method and fly ash treated with sacrificial agent, or air entrainment agent/sacrificial agent combinations, and processes for selecting suitable sacrificial agents. |
US07892345B2 |
Method for producing transparent Pigment Violet 23
The invention accordingly relates to a method for preparing transparent C.I. Pigment Violet 23 by salt kneading a Pigment Violet 23-crude in the presence of a crystalline salt and an organic liquid. Said method is characterized in that the organic liquid is propylene carbonate. |
US07892340B2 |
Ink-jet recording ink, ink-jet recording ink set, ink-jet recording ink media set, ink cartridge, ink-jet recording method and ink-jet recording apparatus
An ink-jet recording ink including water, a water-soluble organic solvent, a pigment (P1) as a colorant (B), and at least one fluorochemical surfactant selected from compounds represented by Structural Formula (1) below, where R1 denotes any one of a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group and a fluorine-containing group, Rf denotes a fluorine-containing group, and each of x, y and z denotes an integer of 1 or greater. |
US07892334B2 |
Package of volatile substance and air conditioner for vehicles provided with the package
The object of the present invention is to provide a package of a volatile substance, which comprises a bag having a volatile substance with an antibacterial action enclosed therein, and a case having the bag enclosed therein, wherein the case is allowed to have a size and shape complying with the amount of a volatile substance having permeated the bag so that the shape of the case can be adapted to the volumes and shapes of various air conditioners, while the volatile substance can be volatilized at a predetermined rate. The package of a volatile substance according to the invention comprises a source generating the volatile substance, and a case which has the volatile-substance source enclosed therein and which has a wall at least a part of which is made of a gas-permeable resin, wherein the case is characterized in that a value expressed by the formula X×Z/Y is 200000 to 1500000 wherein X represents the surface area (mm2) of the wall; Y represents the thickness (mm) of the wall; and Z represents the vaporization amount (mg/day) of the volatile substance volatilized by the volatile-substance source per day in an atmosphere at 30° C. |
US07892331B2 |
Dialysis systems having air separation chambers with internal structures to enhance air removal
A dialysis fluid cassette includes a rigid portion defining at least one valve chamber, the rigid portion further defining an air separation chamber, the air separation chamber when in an operating position including a first sidewall and a second sidewall, a first fluid opening, a second fluid opening, and a separation wall extending from the first sidewall to the second sidewall, the separation wall having a free edge residing within the air separation chamber, the separation wall forcing the dialysis fluid to flow from one of the fluid openings around the free edge of the separation wall to the other of the openings. |
US07892324B2 |
Systems and methods for carbon dioxide capture
Methods and systems for handling sour carbon dioxide (CO2) streams are provided. In one aspect, a method for sequestering an emissions-heavy gas includes removing at least a portion of an acid gas from a rich solvent in an acid gas stripper to create the emissions-heavy gas, and channeling the emissions-heavy gas to a storage system. |
US07892323B2 |
Hydrogen management in petrochemical process units
The management of hydrogen in hydrogen-containing streams associated with petrochemical process units wherein the hydrogen-containing stream is subjected rapid cycle pressure swing adsorption to increase the concentration of hydrogen therein. |
US07892318B2 |
Crystallisation method for the purification of a molten metal, in particular recycled aluminium
Method for purifying molten metal having a specific density and including one or more foreign elements to be removed, by (a) cooling the molten metal to a eutectic temperature to simultaneously form purified metal crystals and crystals including at least one foreign element, and (b) separating at least some of the purified metal crystals from the crystals including at least one foreign element by adjusting the molten metal specific density within a range delimited by a lower value being specific density of the purified metal crystals and an upper limit being specific density of the crystals including the at least one foreign element. The molten metal specific density is adjusted to this range by addition of a metal to alter the molten metal specific density and maintained within this range during separation. The method is advantageously applicable for purification of aluminium melts from recycle aluminium and aluminium scraps. |
US07892316B2 |
Fine composite metal particles and their production method, micro-bodies, and magnetic beads
Fine composite metal particle comprising a metal core and a coating layer of carbon, and being obtained by reducing metal oxide powder with carbon powder. |
US07892315B2 |
Solid-solution powder, method to prepare the solid-solution powder, cermet powder including the solid-solution powder, method to prepare the cermet powder, cermet using the cermet powder and method to prepare the cermet
Disclosed are a solid-solution powder, a method for preparing the solid-solution powder, a cermet powder including the solid-solution powder, a method for preparing the cermet powder, a cermet using the cermet powder and a method to prepare the cermet. According to the present invention, the problem of low toughness due to high hardness that conventional cermets (especially TiC or Ti(CN) based cermet) have is resolved because a complete solid-solution phase without core/rim structure is provided to the cermets as a microstructure thereof, and in which further increased the hardness as well as the toughness, thereby substantially and considerably increasing general mechanical properties of materials using the cermet, and thus substituting WC—Co hard material and allowing manufacturing of cutting tools with high hardness and toughness. |
US07892312B2 |
Nitrification inhibitor and soil improver and fertilizer containing the same
A nitrification inhibitor and a soil improver and a fertilizer containing the same are offered which can be utilized in a wide area from a tropical to a temperate zone, and can be easily obtained from natural origin materials. It is a nitrification inhibitor to inhibit soil nitrification, containing as a main component either one of linoleic acid, α-linolenic acid, γ-linolenic acid, and methyl linoleate, or their mixture of two or more. By incorporating this nitrification inhibitor into a soil improver or a fertilizer, nitrification of soil can be effectively inhibited. |
US07892311B2 |
Use of ulvans as elicitors of mechanisms for nitrogen absorption and protein synthesis
The present invention relates to the use of ulvans, in particular extracted from green algae of the genus Ulva or Enteromorpha, or of ulvan-derived oligosaccharides, as elicitors of mechanisms for nitrogen absorption and protein synthesis.It also relates to a fertilizing product containing ulvans and to the use thereof in a plant treatment method. |
US07892310B2 |
Biowaste treatment
A method of treating bio waste including the steps of (1) fermenting substantially raw biowaste in a pathogen reduction stage under anaerobic conditions for a predetermined period at a temperature in the mesophillic temperature range and (2) subsequently separating the solid and liquid phases to produce a fermented cake and fermented liquor. The fermented cake has at least 15% solids on dry basis and contains over 500 mg/L ammonia, over 1,000 mg/L total Volatile Fatty Acids (tVFA) and Escherichia coli less than 100,000 cfu per g dry solids. The fermented liquor contains over 10,000 mg/L COD, over 500 mg/L ammonia, over 1,000 mg/L tVFA and less than 5,000 mg/L of suspended solids. |
US07892309B2 |
Production method of honeycomb filter and honeycomb filter
A method for producing a honeycomb filter from a honeycomb structure having large numbers of flow paths partitioned by cell walls, comprising inserting a tubular member into each of the flow paths, and injecting a plugging material into each of the flow paths from the tubular member to form a plug in each of the flow paths at a position separate from the end surface of the honeycomb structure, the tubular member having an outer diameter that is 40-90% of the opening size of the flow path, the plugging material comprising at least a ceramic material having a maximum particle size that is 85% or less of the inner diameter of the tubular member, and an average particle size of 1 μm or more. |
US07892308B2 |
Ceramic filter
A filling percentage of a central portion is larger than that of a peripheral portion at the inlet end surface of an exhaust gas of a honeycomb segment (2) constituting a ceramic filter due to additional filling (13). Thus, an amount of soot accumulated in vents (5) in the central portion of each honeycomb segment (2) is less relative to that in the peripheral portion. This decreases a quantity of heat generated by burning of soot in the central portion, and reduces temperature rise during recycling, thus limiting the maximum temperature of the ceramic filter (1). |
US07892299B2 |
Methods of manufacturing fuel cell electrodes incorporating highly dispersed nanoparticle catalysts
Nanoparticle catalysts are manufactured by first preparing a solution of a solvent and a plurality of complexed catalyst atoms. Each of the complexed catalyst atoms has at least three organic ligands. The complexed catalyst atoms are reduced to form a plurality of nanoparticles. During formation of the nanoparticles, the organic ligands provide spacing between the catalyst atoms via steric hindrances and/or provide interactions with a support material. The spacing and interactions with the support material allow formation of small, stable, and uniform nanoparticles. The supported nanoparticle catalyst is then incorporated into a fuel cell electrode. |
US07892294B2 |
Method for dyeing keratin fibers using at least one compound of azomethine type comprising a pyrazolopyridine unit
Provided herein is a method for dyeing keratin fibers, comprising applying to the keratin fibers, at least one composition comprising at least one compound chosen from compounds of leuco type of formula (I), dyes of azomethine type containing a pyrazolopyridine unit of formula (II) corresponding to the compounds of formula (I), mesomeric forms, isomers and tautomers thereof, and also acid-addition salts thereof and solvates thereof: |
US07892293B2 |
Hair dye composition
A hair dye composition containing the following components (a) and (b) and having a pH from 2 to 12 at the time of use: (a) 0.1 to 20% by mass of an aromatic sulfone compound represented by the formula (1) shown below: Wherein R's, Y, X− and Z+ are defined in the claims and in the disclosure. (b) 0.01 to 5% by mass of at least one component selected from glycylglycine, glycylglycylglycine and salts thereof. |
US07892292B2 |
Positioning tools and methods for implanting medical devices
Described herein is a positioning tool having an elongate portion for carrying a medical implant. Also described is a method of positioning a medical implant using an elongate positioning tool. One form of the method includes positioning a medical implant on a distal portion of an elongate positioning tool, inserting the positioning tool with the implant thereon into a body cavity, manipulating the positioning tool to position the implant into contact with tissue at an attachment location, attaching the implant to surrounding tissue at the attachment location, separating the implant from the positioning tool, and withdrawing the positioning tool from the body. In a preferred embodiment, the position of the implant is visually confirmed using an endoscope before the implant is attached to surrounding tissue. In one embodiment, the implant is a satiation device and the body cavity is the esophagus and/or stomach. In an alternative embodiment, an expansion structure on the distal end of the elongate portion expands and/or contracts the medical implant to facilitate positioning. |
US07892291B2 |
Devices and methods for treating defects in the tissue of a living being
An implant for deployment in select locations or select tissue for regeneration of tissue is disclosed. The implant includes collagen and or other bio-resorbable materials, where the implant may also be used for therapy delivery. Additionally, the implant may include, or have blended in, an additive, such as an osteoinductive factor, for example biocompatible ceramics and glass. |
US07892289B2 |
Implant bore insert
Implant bore insert has an outer surface that is, at least in part, substantially cylindrically aligned. The insert may be blind, thus forming a cup, or it may be open ended. The insert can be provided with a predetermined outer circumferential surface that provides for a suitable interference fit with a corresponding bore hole of an implant component part. When inserted into the bore hole, the insert preferably seats itself on a blind end of the bore hole. Examples of implants employed with the insert can include ceramic ball joint heads and teeth. |
US07892287B2 |
Glenoid augment and associated method
A augmented glenoid implant assembly for use in performing shoulder arthroplasty is provided. The augmented glenoid implant assembly is used for cooperation with the glenoid fossa of a scapula. The implant assembly includes a first component for attachment to the scapula. The first component defines a support surface for cooperation with the glenoid fossa, a second surface positioned adjacent a buttress formed in the glenoid fossa and an assembly surface. The implant assembly also includes a second component removably secured to the first component. The second component includes an assembly face of the second component. The assembly surface of the second component is in close approximation to the assembly surface of the first component. The second component further includes an articulating surface opposed to the assembly surface. |
US07892285B2 |
Universal joint total disc replacement
A vertebral disc replacement includes superior and inferior end plates separated by a leaf spring. The leaf spring includes two opposed legs that extend from a floating intermediate portion of the leaf spring to the superior end plate and two opposed legs that extend from the floating intermediate portion to the inferior end plate. The disc replacement device is compact and provides freedom of movement along three axes, translational along the caudal/cranial axis, lateral bending and flexion/extension. |
US07892279B2 |
Extendible stent apparatus
The present invention concerns novel stent apparatuses for use in treating lesions at or near the bifurcation point in bifurcated cardiac, coronary, renal, peripheral vascular, gastrointestinal, pulmonary, urinary and neurovascular vessels and brain vessels. More particularly, the invention concerns a stent apparatus with at least one side opening which may further comprise an extendable stent portion laterally extending from the side opening and at least partly in registry with the wall of the side opening. Devices constructed in accordance with the invention include, singularly or in combination, a main expandable stent comprising at least one substantially circular side opening located between its proximal and distal end openings, which side opening may further comprise an expandable portion extending radially outward from the edges of the side opening; and a branch stent comprising proximal and distal end openings and which may further comprise a contacting portion at its proximal end, and which may optionally be constructed to form either a perpendicular branch or a non-perpendicular branch when inserted through a side opening of the main stent. The stents of the invention are marked with, or at least partially constructed of, a material which is imagable during intraluminal catheterization techniques, most preferably but not limited to ultrasound and x-ray. |
US07892276B2 |
Valve with delayed leaflet deployment
A valve for use in a body lumen, where the valve includes a valve leaflet with delayed leaflet deployment relative an in vivo implant time. The valve includes a valve frame, a valve leaflet coupled to the valve frame. The valve leaflet includes a commissure that can reversibly seal for unidirectional flow of a liquid through the valve, and a biodegradable adhesive between the valve leaflet and the valve frame to hold at least the commissure of the valve leaflet in a static relationship relative the valve frame for a predetermined time once implanted in vivo. |
US07892270B2 |
Temperature management system and method for burn patients
Intravascular closed loop heat exchange catheters are used to manage temperature in burn patients. |
US07892265B2 |
Surgical screw including a body that facilitates bone in-growth
A surgical screw that includes a body portion that facilitates bone in-growth from a bone in which the screw is mounted so as to stabilize the screw in the bone. The body portion can have various configurations for facilitating bone in-growth, such as indentations, a roughened surface, such as by acid etching or abrasive media blasting, specialized coatings, such as hydroxyapetite, sintered beads, machined channels, etc. Because the body portion of the screw facilitates bone growth, the screw will be more firmly mounted to the bone so as to have a greater integrity in response to movement of the bone. The type of surgical screw can be any surgical screw that will benefit from being better anchored in bone, such as pedicle screws, long bone screws, cervical fusion screws, tendon anchoring screws, etc. |
US07892262B2 |
Posterior prosthetic spinal disc replacement and methods thereof
The present invention relates generally to a prosthetic spinal disc for replacing a damaged disc between two vertebrae of a spine. The present invention also relates to a method for implanting a prosthetic spinal disc via posterior or posterior lateral implantation. Other surgical approaches for implanting the prosthetic disc may also be used. The present invention also involves a method for implanting the prosthetic spinal disc while either avoiding or minimizing contact with the spinal cord and nerve rootlets, or reducing the time and extent that they need to be repositioned during implantation. |
US07892259B2 |
Bone anchoring device
A bone anchoring device includes a receiving part for receiving a rod, the receiving part having a first bore coaxial with a longitudinal axis and a second bore. The bone anchoring device also includes an anchoring element having a first end for insertion into the bone and a second end positionable within a second bore, the second end having a spherically shaped surface portion. The bone anchoring device further has a locking device provided to the second bore of the receiving part The locking device protrudes from an inner wall of the second bore and engages with a recessed surface portion of the second end of the anchoring element, such that the anchoring element is pivotable relative to the receiving part around a single axis of rotation. The locking device may comprise pins inserted into through holes formed in the receiving part, which engage with the recessed surface portion of the second end. |
US07892258B2 |
Spine stabilization system and integrated rod
Spine stabilization systems and integrated rods are disclosed. One spine stabilization system disclosed has at least four bone anchors and a stabilization member attached to the bone anchors. The stabilization member has first and second elongate portions interconnected by a connector portion. The first and second elongate members extend longitudinally and generally parallel to a central longitudinal axis and connector portion extends transverse to the central longitudinal axis from a first lateral end to a second lateral end. The connector portion is integrally connected to the first and second elongate portions such that there is no relative movement between the lateral ends and the respective elongate portion to which each end is attached. |
US07892257B2 |
Spring loaded, load sharing polyaxial pedicle screw assembly and method
An assembly and method thereof comprising a screw head comprising an expandable bulbous end; a fixator component configured for receiving the bulbous end of the screw head; a load sharing mechanism positioned in between the bulbous end of the screw head and the bone fixator component, wherein the load sharing mechanism provides tensile resistance to the screw head; a pin mounted in the screw head; and a blocker adapted to engage the screw head. The screw head comprises a slot configured for receiving a longitudinal member. The load sharing mechanism may comprise any of a wave washer, a collapsible hollow washer, a coiled spring, and a flexible washer. Furthermore, the load sharing mechanism may comprise a washer having an outer surface with a plurality of cutout portions configured therein. |
US07892255B2 |
Tissue connector apparatus and methods
Tissue connector assemblies having at least two piercing members, each releaseably coupled to a surgical fastener such as a surgical clip. A flexible member such as a suture may be used to couple one or both piercing members to respective ends of the fastener. |
US07892254B2 |
Embolization method for endovascular occlusion
An embolization device for positioning in a blood vessel comprises an elongated wire body (1) which in its unloaded condition has a predetermined shape and has an elongated shape with a substantially straight center line during its insertion through a catheter (18) to a placement site in the blood vessel and after its release from the catheter assumes a complexly curved shape which depends on the predetermined shape and on the blood vessel impact on the wire body. In its predetermined shape the wire body has at least one section (4) located between its front and back ends in which the center line has substantially no curvature or such a small curvature that along a length of at least 20 mm it follows a helix-free path. The front end section (2, 2″, 2′″) of the wire body is adapted to be frictionally locked to the vessel wall when discharged from the catheter, before said helix-free section (4) has been discharged from the catheter. When the helix-free section (4) is discharged it will bend sideways and seek towards the middle of the vessel lumen and continue towards the opposite vessel wall where it is frictionally locked. At continued pushing out many such vessel-crossing wire portions (20) occur, which provides efficient occlusion of the vessel. One advantage of the embolization device is that it may be used to occlude blood vessel areas. Accordingly, a method is described for occluding a blood vessel area using the wire body (1). |
US07892253B2 |
Tourniquet and method of use
A tourniquet for restricting a flow of blood in a body part comprises a first elongated member, and a second elongated member in slidable engagement with the first elongated member. In addition, the tourniquet includes a tensioning mechanism connected to the second elongated member, wherein a compressive force is applied to the body part upon applying a tensile force to the second elongated member using the tensioning mechanism. At least one embodiment of the present invention comprises a buckle having one or more of a raised intermediate bar and one or more teeth for contacting a portion of the first elongated member. The tourniquet is suited for emergency use, and may be applied by using only one hand. Thus, the tourniquet may be applied, manipulated and tightened by the wearer, even if the wearer is limited to the use of a single hand. |
US07892249B2 |
Cannula for receiving surgical instruments
A cannula (10) receives surgical instruments (120) for performing a surgical procedure on a body (130). The cannula (10) comprises a tube structure (12) defining a passage (16) through which the surgical instruments (120) are inserted into the body (130). The tube structure (12) has a proximal end (20) and a distal end (62). The tube structure (12) includes an expandable portion (40) for enabling an increase in the cross-sectional area of the passage (16) at the distal end (62). The expandable portion (40) of the tube structure (12), when expanded, has a conical configuration. |
US07892238B2 |
Methods and apparatus for access to and/or treatment of the spine
Systems, devices, and methods suitable for use with procedures performed at least partially percutaneously are provided. In some procedures, two or more access devices for providing access to adjacent surgical locations within a patient are used. Certain embodiments of the access device comprise an elongate body having a distal end with one or more cutouts. The cutouts on adjacent access devices are generally aligned with each other to permit passage of a portion of a fixation element from one access device to the other access device. A fastener with an elongated removable head may be delivered to the surgical site through the access device. After a distal end of the fastener is secured to the surgical site, a portion of the elongated housing is detached from the remainder of the fastener and removed from the patient. |
US07892236B1 |
System and method for total joint replacement
The present invention provides a system and method of performing a total joint replacement surgery on a patient. The method includes making an incision through skin of the patient proximal to the joint. At least a portion of an imaging device is inserted under the skin, proximal to the joint. The joint is inspected, using the imaging device. A cutting guide is positioned through the incision and on an end portion of a first bone in the joint. The end portion of the first bone is cut by moving a cutting tool along the cutting guide. An implant is moved through the incision and connected with the cut end portion of the first bone. The imaging device is used to view the join prior to and/or after connection of the implant to the first bone. |
US07892235B2 |
Drill bit and method for producing a drill bit
A drill bit including a shaft which has a pyramidal shaped end defining a drill tip with a plurality of edges defining the pyramidal shape. One or more recesses are provided for directing away debris produced whilst drilling, the at least one recess having a first portion extending along the shaft and a second portion which extends along the drill tip. The second portion of the at least one recess extends along an edge of the drill tip. |
US07892227B2 |
Corneal topography-based target warping system
Systems and methods for treating a tissue of an eye with a laser beam include at least one processor that determines angles between a curved surface and a laser beam, controlling an ablative treatment in response to the angles. Angles between a surface of a cornea and a laser beam may be mapped over a treatment area. A mapped area may include an apex of a cornea displaced from a center of a pupil of an eye. Ablation properties may be determined locally in response to the incident angle of a laser beam with respect to a local slope of a tissue surface. The treatment area may be ablated using local ablation properties to form a desired surface shape. |
US07892226B2 |
Method of corneal surgery by laser incising a contoured corneal flap
A method of corneal laser surgery is disclosed. A first periphery is defined at an anterior surface of the cornea. This first periphery bounds a first planar area. A second periphery is defined within stromal tissue of the cornea. This second periphery bounds a second planar area. The second planar area is sized differently than the first planar area. A layer of stromal tissue which is bounded by the second periphery is subsequently incised. Stromal tissue between substantial portions of the first periphery and the second periphery is also incised, such that at least some corneal tissue disposed between the first and second peripheries remains connected to corneal tissue outside of the first and second peripheries. |
US07892225B2 |
Devices and methods for separating layers of materials having different ablation thresholds
A method and device for photoablation is disclosed wherein photoablation occurs along the interface between a material having a lower energy ablation threshold and a material having a higher energy ablation threshold. The method and device utilize a laser beam having a beam energy density which is less than the higher energy ablation threshold and greater than or equal to the lower energy ablation threshold. By directing such a laser beam to the interface, the material having the lower energy threshold is photoablated while the material having the higher energy threshold is largely unaffected. |
US07892223B2 |
Surgical instrument
A surgical instrument has a gas-delivery device to supply a noble gas or other inert gas to a tissue-treatment region and a rinsing device for rinsing a target region, in particular a tissue-treatment region. In the instrument the rinsing pressure is generated by the inert gas supplied by the gas-delivery device. |
US07892221B2 |
Method of controlled drug delivery from implant device
Reservoir-based medical devices are provided. In one embodiment, the medical device comprises a substrate; at least two discrete, microfabricated reservoirs provided in spaced positions across at least one surface of the substrate; discrete reservoir caps covering the at least two reservoirs; and control circuitry for selectively disintegrating the reservoir caps to open the reservoirs. The reservoirs of the device can include a diagnostic reagent or other molecules useful in medical diagnostics. In one embodiment, the reservoir cap comprises an anode and the control circuitry comprises a cathode and a power source for creating an electric potential between the cathode and the anode. Application of the electric potential causes the reservoir cap to disintegrate, thereby opening the reservoir. |
US07892218B2 |
pH reducing formulation
A formulation effective in reducing the pH in a menstruating vagina or in a tampon inserted therein to below pH 5.5, comprising (a) 3-100% by weight of glycolide; (b) optionally 97-15% by weight of a solid organic acid; and (c) optionally 5-30% of a wetting agent. Also disclosed is a catamenial tampon for insertion in a human vagina which comprises the pH reducing formulation. |
US07892216B2 |
Infusion set
An infusion set comprises a base member (60), an introducer cap (64), and an infusion cap (54). The base member (60) preferably comprises a soft cannula (52) extending from a lower side (118) of the base member (60), and a port (62) on an upper side (92) thereof. The port (62) is configured to be in fluid communication with the cannula (52). The port (62) also comprises a septum (130) adapted to seal the port (62) against unwanted fluid flow. The introducer cap (64) is adapted to be mounted to the base member (60) and has a needle (66) adapted to extend through the septum (130) and said soft cannula (52) in an assembled position. The infusion cap (54) comprises a lumen (160) adapted to receive an elongate flexible tube (162). The infusion cap (54) also comprises a hard cannula (170) adapted to be inserted through the septum (130) and to place said soft cannula (52) in fluid communication with said lumen (160). |
US07892215B2 |
Insert for coupling sheaths used in medical devices
An insert for joining sheaths for use in a medical device is described. The insert has a first end including a first operative coupling and a second end including a second operative coupling. The first operative coupling is for engaging a first tube at its distal end, and the second operative coupling is for engaging a second tube at its proximal end. The insert also includes a first passageway extending through the insert from the second end to an exit port disposed between the first operative coupling and the second operative coupling. This disclosure also provides a catheter including such an insert, and a method of assembling a catheter. |
US07892212B2 |
Drive device and method for advancing an advancing element
A drive device for advancing an advancing element (2; 33) relative to a housing (1; 30) over a entire advancing distance (G) comprises a tensioning device having a tensioning element (3; 39) for tensioning a spring device (4). A predetermined distance (A) between the tensioning element (39) and the advancing element (33) or between the counter element (7) and the tensioning element (3) that engages with advancing element can be set according to the advancing of the advancing element (2; 33) by a partial advancing distance that is less than the entire advancing distance (G). According to a method for discharging a fluid product from a container (16) via an outlet (17), a plunger (18) is displaced inside the container (16) by means of a drive device provided with an advancing element (2; 33) and with a spring device (4), whereby the spring device (4) is tensioned by a tensioning device according to the advancing of the advancing element (2; 33) by a partial advancing distance. |
US07892206B2 |
Method and apparatus for detecting errors, fluid pressure, and occlusions in an ambulatory infusion pump
An improved pump, reservoir and reservoir piston are provided for controlled delivery of fluids. A motor is operably coupled to a drive member, such as a drive screw, which is adapted to advance a plunger slide in response to operation of the motor. The plunger slide is removably coupled to the piston. A method, system, and an article of manufacture for automatically detecting a force sensor failure in a medication infusion pump is provided. The electrical current to an infusion pump is measured. Based on the current measurements, the infusion pump detects when the plunger slide is seated in the reservoir, and detects a problem with the force sensor when the force sensor independently fails to register a value indicating that the plunger slide is seated in the reservoir. |
US07892205B2 |
Device and method for delivering micronized therapeutic agents in the body
The present invention provides a catheter and catheter assembly for delivering micronized therapeutic agents to a target site in the body and, in particular, to a target site in the heart. The micronized therapeutic agents are delivered in aerosol form or dry powder form. The present invention also provides a method of delivering micronized therapeutic agents to a target site in the body by placing the therapeutic agents in a catheter, positioning the catheter in the target site, and exposing the therapeutic agents to an energizing mechanism sufficient to create supersonic flow to carry the therapeutic agents from a stationary state in the catheter to a mobile state towards the target site. |
US07892201B1 |
Balloon catheter and method of mounting same
The present invention provides improved methods for forming and mounting a sleeve on a catheter shaft in order to form a distensible balloon catheter. The balloon is formed from a distensible sleeve that is treated to render one or both of its ends essentially non-distensible. The balloon is mounted on the catheter shaft by the non-distensible ends, without compromising the distensible operative portion of the balloon. The balloon may also be mounted using non-distensible tape or similar means to achieve a similar result. |
US07892198B2 |
Device and method for treatment of surface infections with nitric oxide
A device for the topical delivery of nitric oxide gas to an infected area of skin includes a source of nitric oxide gas, a bathing unit, a flow control valve, and a vacuum unit. The bathing unit is adapted to surround the area of the infected skin and form a substantially air-tight seal with the skin surface. The bathing unit is also in fluidic communication with the source of nitric oxide. The flow control valve is position downstream of the source of nitric oxide and upstream of the bathing unit. The flow control valve controls the amount of nitric oxide gas that is delivered to the bathing unit. The vacuum unit is positioned downstream of the bathing unit and is used to withdraw gas from the bathing unit. Application of nitric oxide gas to the infected area of skin reduces levels of bacteria in the infected area and promotes the healing process. |
US07892195B2 |
Knee immobilizer
An orthopedic brace designed to immobilize the knee by preventing flexion/extension and limiting medial/lateral movement. The brace includes a main support structure embodied in a unitary, rigid stay member with slidable, semi-rigid cuffs at one or both ends to provide length adjustability. The stay member has no popliteal articulation in order to immobilize the knee joint, and further provides attachment for a Velcro strapping system for easy application to the posterior of the leg. A breathable foam softgood insulates the leg and knee from the main support structure and strapping system yet is completely detachable from the brace so it can be trimmed to any desired length or width, and washed as necessary. |
US07892194B2 |
Dynamic hand splints
A dynamic hand splint includes as elements thereof: a forearm support section and a hand support section that are configured to be releasably attached to a forearm; and one or more finger tensioners that are releasably attached to the hand support section and that are configured to be releasably attached to a respective finger such that, when the finger is flexed from an extended position toward a flexed position, the finger is urged by the finger tensioner toward an extended position. A method includes: attaching a forearm support section and a hand support section to a forearm; attaching finger tensioners to the hand support section; and attaching each of the finger tensioners to a respective finger such that, when the finger is flexed from an extended position toward a flexed position, the finger is urged by the finger tensioner toward an extended position. |
US07892190B2 |
Chain stabilizing device in hyperthermo-therapeutic apparatus and method of using the same
The present invention is to provide a chain stabilizing device which can fundamentally solve the phenomenon of extension of a chain during use of a hyperthermo-therapeutic apparatus and allow use of existing curved rails conforming to the shape of a user's body. The present invention is to provide an apparatus for stabilizing a chain in a hyperthermo-therapeutic apparatus, comprising a chain stabilization control unit for stably moving the chain at a constant level regardless of an upward/downward movement of a hyperthermo-therapeutic unit of the hyperthermo-therapeutic apparatus during forward/backward reciprocation of the hyperthermo-therapeutic unit; and a chain-tension control unit for adjusting a tension on the chain, which can be generated during the forward and backward reciprocation of the hyperthermo-therapeutic unit. |
US07892189B2 |
Movement analysis display apparatus and movement analyzing method
A movement analysis display apparatus includes a analyzing unit for analyzing waveform data of a time series which is acquired from a movement sensor, and a display unit for displaying an analysis result that is analyzed by the analyzing unit. The analyzing unit includes a movement waveform generating section for generating a movement waveform from the waveform data, an energy balance value calculating means for calculating a movement energy ratio in opposed movement directions in a velocity waveform, an envelope curve generating section for generating an envelope curve at a given time width in a distance waveform, and a time integration curve analyzing section for integrating a movement waveform with respect to time. |
US07892188B2 |
Method and apparatus for characterization of clot formation
Methods, apparatus and systems for characterizing changes in at least one physical property of soft tissue. A series of acoustic pulses is generated and directed into the soft tissue such that at least one of the pulses is of sufficiently high intensity to induce physical displacement of the tissue. Waves reflected off the tissue, or a flexible member that moves with the tissue, are received and measured to estimate at least one characteristic of the physical displacement induced thereby. Repetition of the generating, receiving and estimating steps provides characterization of the at least one physical property over time. Methods, apparatus and systems for characterizing at least one physical property of blood, by generating a series of acoustic pulses and directing the series of pulses into the blood such that at least one of the pulses is of sufficiently high intensity to induce physical displacement of the blood. Acoustic pulses and/or optical waves reflected from the blood, or a flexible member in contact with the blood that moves with the blood, are received and measured to estimate at least one characteristic of the physical displacement induced thereby. |
US07892183B2 |
Method and apparatus for body fluid sampling and analyte sensing
A body fluid sampling system is provided for use on a tissue site. In one embodiment, the system comprises a cartridge; a penetrating member driver; a plurality of penetrating members arranged in a radial configuration on the cartridge wherein sharpened distal tips of the penetrating members point radially outward; wherein an active one of the penetrating members may be operatively coupled to the penetrating member driver, the penetrating member driver moving the active one along a path out of a housing having a penetrating member exit, into the tissue site, stopping in the tissue site, and withdrawing out of the tissue site; and a plurality of analyte detecting members, wherein at least one of the analyte detecting members is positioned to receive fluid from a wound created by the active one of the penetrating members, wherein the detecting members are not pierced by the active one of the penetrating members. |
US07892179B2 |
Apparatus, method and system for determining a physiological condition within a mammal
A system, method and apparatus for determining a physiological condition within a mammal based on pH and/or temperature measurements. The invention is for determining vaginal health and/or fertility status in a female mammal based on pH and/or temperature measurements of vaginal and/or cervical fluids or tissue. The invention is suited for taking either in vivo or external measurements. In one aspect, the invention is an apparatus comprising an elongated probe portion and a handle portion. In one embodiment, the circuitry of the apparatus is strategically split between the probe portion and the handle portion to facilitate a plug-and-play type of device. In another embodiment, an elongated probe is provided that has a hermetically sealed internal cavity that houses the circuitry while leaving the temperature sensor and the pH sensor exposed for direct contact with the desired biological fluid. In a further embodiment, an ISFET is used as the pH sensor. |
US07892178B1 |
Monitoring device for an interactive game
A system and method (1000) for an interactive game is disclosed herein. The system (1000) preferably includes monitoring device (20) monitoring the vital signs of a user, an interface (1115), a game console (1010) and an accessory (1020). The monitoring device (20) is preferably an article (25) having an optical sensor (30) and a circuitry assembly (35), and a pair of straps (26a and 26b). The monitoring device (20) preferably provides for the display of the following information about the user: pulse rate; blood oxygenation levels; calories expended by the user of a pre-set time period; target zones of activity; time; distance traveled; and/or dynamic blood pressure. The article (25) is preferably a band worn on a user's wrist, arm or ankle. |
US07892176B2 |
Monitoring or imaging system with interconnect structure for large area sensor array
An ultrasonic monitoring system is formed with a probe unit. In one example an array of transducer cells is arranged in rows and columns formed along a first plane with a first pitch along a first direction. An integrated circuit including an array of circuit cells is formed along a second plane parallel to the first plane. The circuit cells are spaced apart along the first direction at a second pitch smaller than the first pitch. A first of the transducer cells is vertically aligned, along a direction normal to one of the planes, with a first of the circuit cells and having a connection thereto. A second of the transducer cells is offset from vertical alignment with respect to the position of a second circuit cell so as to not overlie the second circuit cell. A connection subsystem is positioned between the array of transducer cells and the array of circuit cells, configured to form connection of the first transducer cell to the first circuit cell and connection of the second transducer cell with the second circuit cell. |
US07892174B2 |
Surgical access system and method of using the same
A surgical access system includes retractor for creating an access path between an incision site and a surgical site. The retractor includes a frame having a base member and a pair of generally curved rails extending therefrom. A tubular member is coupled to the frame and includes first and second blade portions that are capable of relative movement with respect to each other by movement on the curved rails. A method of inserting the retractor into a patient includes inserting a guide rod over a guide wire, locating an obturator in the retractor, inserting the obturator and retractor over the guide rod, and removing both the guide rod and obturator to leave the retractor in the body to provide the access path. |
US07892173B2 |
Surgical access system and related methods
A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue retraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. |
US07892170B2 |
Surgical access device and manufacture thereof
A surgical access system includes a tubular member defining a longitudinal axis and having an axial lumen. The tubular member includes a braided material adapted to expand from a first initial condition having a first cross-sectional dimension to a second expanded condition having a second-cross sectional dimension greater than the first cross-sectional dimension. The tubular member defines an oblique end surface. An access housing is mounted to the tubular member. The access housing is dimensioned for engagement by the user. A process for manufacturing a surgical access device is also disclosed. |
US07892168B2 |
Confocal endoscope system
There is provided a confocal endoscope system which is provided with an electronic endoscope having a confocal optical unit configured to emit illumination light toward an object and to obtain only light from a certain point of the object, and a processor to which the light obtained by the confocal optical unit is inputted. The processor is provided with an image processing unit that generates image data representing an image of the object based on the light transmitted from the confocal optical unit, and a measuring information superimposing unit that generates composite image data representing a composite image generated by superimposing measuring information for measuring the object on the image generated by the image processing unit. The measuring information superimposing unit determines a display condition of the measuring information on the composite image in accordance with an imaging area of the confocal optical unit. |
US07892167B2 |
Endoscopy system and a pressure transmitting connector for said system
The inventive endoscopy system includes a cannula for arranging an endoscope and forming, between said cannula and endoscope, an irrigation or aspiration channel for transporting an irrigation or aspiration fluid, respectively, a connection ring mounted around the cannula and provided with a connection channel connectable to the irrigation or aspiration channel, respectively and a connector which is mounted on the connection ring and includes a transport channel with the connection channel and a first pressure sensor for detecting pressure in the transport channel. The connection ring is provided with a bypass circuit connectable to the irrigation or aspiration channel, respectively and the connector including a dead channel connectable to the bypass circuit and a second pressure sensor for detecting pressure in the dead channel. |
US07892166B2 |
Medical instrument including a catheter having a catheter stiffener and method for using
A medical instrument including a medical catheter having a distal end insertable within a body lumen of a patient, having a first flexible catheter segment, and having a second flexible catheter segment located distal the first flexible catheter segment. The first flexible catheter segment includes a first loop sensor and includes an active first catheter stiffener adapted to stiffen and un-stiffen substantially only the first flexible catheter segment. The second flexible catheter segment includes a second loop sensor and includes an active second catheter stiffener adapted to stiffen and un-stiffen substantially only the second flexible catheter segment. A method for using the medical instrument is also presented. |
US07892165B2 |
Camera calibration for endoscope navigation system
A scope navigation apparatus, method and a program embodied computer readable medium for navigating a scope end that is to be inserted into an object. The scope end includes at least one sensor that senses a spatial location of the scope end. An image pickup device records one or more images of a calibration device, which includes a sensor that senses a location of the calibration device. A processor calibrates the images recorded by the image pickup device and corrects for intrinsic and extrinsic parameters using a calibration matrix. |
US07892164B2 |
Capsule medical apparatus
A capsule medical apparatus including: a cylindrical capsule-shaped exterior casing; a plurality of electrical substrates stored in the exterior casing; a connecting member using a plurality of soldering balls or a plurality of pins, the connecting member being electrically conductive and mechanically fixing the electrical substrates adjacent and opposed to one another, in a state where each of the plurality of electrical substrates are arranged in a direction orthogonal to a longitudinal direction of the exterior casing such that the electrical substrates are substantially parallel to one another; a battery; and a flexible substrate which is provided with a power pattern which is electrically conductive with the battery and transmits power by the battery, and on which the power pattern is connected so as to be electrically conductive at end surfaces of the plurality of electrical substrates opposed to one another in the longitudinal direction of the exterior casing. |
US07892162B1 |
Arterial interface
Devices and methods are disclosed for implanting, positioning, removing and replacing devices that penetrate an artery. |
US07892155B2 |
Exercise device
The exercise devices disclosed herein are configurable to allow a user to perform various exercises. The exercise device can include an adjustable bench assembly connected with a frame supporting a cable-pulley assembly providing a user interface with a resistance system. A user can interface with an actuation component to pull resistance cables against resistance from the resistance system. Various exercise accessories can be provided that are easily connected with and removed from the exercise device to allow a user to perform different exercises. Some examples of exercise accessories are used to configure the exercise device for squat, abdominal, leg extension, leg curl, and arm curl exercises. The frame can also be configured to selectively place the exercise device in a stationary operating configuration supported by the frame on a support surface and a storage configuration wherein the exercise device is rollingly supported on the support surface by wheels. |
US07892153B2 |
Training apparatus
A training apparatus trains shoulders, arms, and a rear parts without hardening of the muscles, muscle pain and fatigue. It includes a seat part 2, a load application part 3 with load adjustment, right and left guide poles 4 extending vertically with a predetermined interval so that the seat part 2 is in their center position, two lifting parts 5 guided by the right and left guide poles 4, respectively, to be movable up and down, rotating parts 7 connected to shafts 6 rotatable with respect to the lifting parts 5, pulling members 8 connected to the load application part 3 and the lifting parts 5, and load transmission parts 9 connected to the other ends of the pulling members 8 in the lifting parts 5, respectively, and apply load to rotation of the rotating parts 5 about the shafts 6 by the load application part 3. |
US07892151B2 |
Sports board simulator
A sports board simulator (10) comprising a main frame assembly (11) which is suspended from an elevated anchor point so as to be free for at least limited pivoting and swinging movement about the anchor point, the main frame assembly (11) including arms (17) which can be gripped by a user and/or the user can be secured to the frame assembly (11) by a harness (25). An elongated board (40) upon which the user may stand is suspended from the main frame assembly (11) via an intermediate frame (36) which permits the board (40) to move relative to the main frame assembly (11) about a pivot axis (C-C) extending transversely of the main frame assembly (11). The board (40) is also capable of pivoting about further axes D-D, E, and F. |
US07892148B1 |
System and method for integrating exercise equipment with a worksurface assembly
A treadmill assembly comprising a substantially horizontal tread assembly including oppositely extending front and rear ends, a tread and a controller for controlling movement of the tread, a support structure extending proximate the rear end of the tread assembly to a distal top end substantially above the rear end of the tread assembly, a table top member mounted to the distal top end of the support structure, the top member including a substantially flat work surface and a front edge, the work surface having dimensions suitable to support a computer keyboard and a control assembly including at least one input button for providing command signals for controlling the controller, the control assembly supported by the table top member adjacent the front edge of the table top member. |
US07892146B2 |
Rocking type exercising apparatus
A rocking type exercising apparatus includes a movable unit on which a user rides, a driving unit for causing the movable unit to perform a rocking motion, and a rocking motion changing unit for changing the rocking motion of the movable unit driven to rock by the driving unit. The rocking type exercising apparatus also includes a display unit, responsive to the change in the rocking motion caused by the rocking motion changing unit, for displaying loads to be applied to a plurality of body regions of the user. |
US07892144B2 |
Method for the operation of a drivetrain
A method for operating a motor vehicle drivetrain with at least an automatic transmission and a drive motor. The automatic transmission includes at least five shifting elements to transmit torque and/or power. In each forward and reverse gear a maximum of two shifting elements are disengaged while the remaining shifting elements are engaged. Two consecutive gearshifts are carried out through selection of the five shifting elements. During a first gearshift, implemented as a multiple gearshift, a subsequent second gearshift, implemented as either a single or multiple gearshift, is prepared. During the first gearshift, a first shifting element is disengaged, a second shifting element is engaged, a third shifting element is prepared for disengagement in a subsequent second gearshift and a fourth shifting element is prepared for engagement. Further, during the first gearshift and the subsequent second gearshift, a fifth shifting element is retained in at least a substantially engaged state. |
US07892142B2 |
Hydraulically servocontrolled transmission for a road vehicle provided with an internal combustion engine
A hydraulically servocontrolled transmission for a road vehicle provided with an internal combustion engine; the servocontrolled transmission displays: a servocontrolled mechanical gearbox operated by at least one first hydraulic actuator; a servocontrolled clutch operated by at least one second hydraulic actuator; a hydraulic circuit comprising a hydraulic accumulator, which contains pressurised control fluid which is used by the hydraulic actuators, and a pump, which is directly operated by the internal combustion engine to supply pressurised control fluid to the hydraulic accumulator; a park-lock device operatable to block the rotation of the driving wheels; and a control unit, which, when the internal combustion engine is turned off, uses the remaining pressure of the control fluid within the hydraulic accumulator to bring the servocontrolled mechanical gearbox in a neutral position. |
US07892140B2 |
Vehicle and control method of vehicle
In response to a change of a gearshift position from a parking position to a driving position, the control system of the invention connects a power shaft with a driveshaft linked to drive wheels (steps S310 and S380), while performing rotation restriction control to form a fixed magnetic field on a stator of a second motor and thereby prohibit rotation of a rotor in the second motor (step S300). This arrangement desirably restrains rotation of the power shaft and accordingly prevents the occurrence of a shock in the course of connection of the power shaft with an axle. |
US07892137B2 |
Multi-speed transmission
The transmission includes input and output shafts, gearsets (RS1, RS2, RS3, RS4), shafts (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8), and elements (A, B, C, D, E). A carrier of gearset (RS4) couples the input shaft forming shaft (1). A carrier of gearset (RS3) couples the output shaft forming shaft (2). Sun gears of gearsets (RS1, RS4) couple forming shaft (3). Ring gears of gearsets (RS1, RS2) respectively form shafts (4, 8). A carrier and sun gear respectively of gearsets (RS2, RS3) couple forming shaft (5). A carrier and ring gear respectively of gearsets (RS1, RS3) couple forming shaft (6). Sun and ring gears respectively of gearsets (RS2, RS4) couple forming shaft (7). In the power flow, elements (A, B) are respectively between (3, 4) and a housing, element (C) between (1, 5), element (D) between either (2, 8) or (6, 8), shifting element (E) between two of (5, 7, 8). |
US07892136B2 |
Gear train of automatic transmission for a vehicle
The present invention provides gear train of an automatic transmission for a vehicle having a first planetary gear set being a double pinion planetary gear set, a second planetary gear set being a single pinion planetary gear set, a third planetary gear set being a Ravigneaux planetary gear set, with five clutches and two brakes, which realizes ten forward speeds and three reverse speeds. |
US07892133B2 |
Over-center linkage for engaging a locking differential or other mechanism
The present invention includes novel apparatus and methods for engaging and disengaging a locking differential. In an embodiment, an assembly for use with a locking differential is provided. The assembly includes an actuator, a housing, a shaft, a pair of biasing members, a side gear, and a locking pin. The actuator is arranged to move the assembly from a first position to a second position. The housing is coupled to the actuator. The first biasing member biases the housing, and the second biasing member biases the housing and shaft. The side gear includes an aperture for engaging the locking pin. The locking pin is coupled to the shaft such that the biasing of the shaft determines whether the locking pin is biased into engagement with the aperture or out of engagement with the aperture. |
US07892132B2 |
Continuously variable transmission
This invention relates to a transmission system for transmitting a driving force from a driving unit D to a driven unit F, a transmission adjustment system for adjusting the transmission system to obtain a continuous shift ratio, a guide cone system for maintaining a concentric circle of a rotation radius when a transmission element such as a chain is rotated, a guide cone/transmission adjustment system and a continuously variable transmission system which are made by combination of the above systems. The transmission system includes the transmission element with a tooth portion for transmitting the driving force from the driving unit D to the driven unit F. A transmission adjustment method in the transmission adjustment system is varied depending upon rotation or stop of a carrier. The guide cone system includes a guide cone having a portion of which comes in contact with the transmission element is formed in a shape of a cone having a constant slope. A coupling method of the above systems and an input/output method are selected in the continuously variable transmission system. With the above construction, this invention can be applied without being restricted to the output capacity of the engine, have a simple construction, and transmit a rotation force to an output shaft from an input shaft with high efficiency to reduce energy. Particularly, this invention is widely applied to an industrial machinery as well as a transportation machinery. |
US07892130B1 |
Transmission concept for dual yoke hydrostatic units
A power split transmission concept for two or three or four modes is provided with two variable hydrostatic units, an engine mechanically connected to the row 1 sun of a planetary gear set with at least two planetary rows, the second row of the planetary rows being connected to a row 2 sun, whereby both hydrostatic units stay connected with the same planetary element through all modes, one hydrostatic unit being connected to the sun of row 2 and the other hydrostatic unit being connected to a ring gear of planetary row 2. |
US07892129B2 |
Variable speed transmission with variable orbital path
The present invention relates to transmission systems and changing gear ratios within power transmission systems. In particular, the present invention relates to a positive displacement variable speed transmission. The transmission includes one or more drive gears which orbit, rotate, and which translate radially to change the size of the orbital path. The change in the orbital path increases or decreases the linear velocity of the drive gears which engage one or more driven gears and transfer the changed linear velocity in the form of a gear ratio change. The driven gears are also radially movable and movement of the driven gears is synchronized with the radial movement of the drive gears to maintain substantially constant engagement between gear ratios change. Thus, as the drive and driven gears can slide or step radially to any location within a range of positions, gear ratio changes can be made in very small increments. |
US07892127B2 |
Power transmission chain and power transmission device
A chain (1) includes plural links (2) and plural pairs of first and second pins (3 and 4) to couple the links each other. The first pin (3) comes into rolling and sliding contact with the second pin (4) at the contact portion (D). The first pin (3) includes a pair of end faces (17) opposing each other in the chain width direction (W), and a contact region (24) that comes into contact with the corresponding sheave surfaces of the pulley is formed in each end face (17). The contact region (24) includes the center point of contact (M). The first pin (3) includes a first type pin (3a) and a second type pin (3b). When the linear region of the chain (1) is viewed in the chain width direction (W), the relative position of the contact portion (D) and the center point of contact (M) is different between the first type pin (3a) and the second type pin (3b). |
US07892126B2 |
Transverse element for a drive belt for a continuously variable transmission
The present invention is a transverse element for a drive belt for a continuously variable transmission. The drive belt includes two endless carriers, wherein transverse elements are continuously arranged along the entire length of the carriers. The transverse elements are on both sides provided with recesses for at least partially receiving the carriers. Furthermore, the transverse elements include supporting surfaces for supporting the carriers, as well as pulley sheave contact surfaces for the purpose of contact between the transverse elements and pulley sheaves of the continuously variable transmission. A convex transition region which has two parts having different curvature radii is situated between a supporting surface and a pulley sheave contact surface, wherein a first curvature radius of a first part at the side of the supporting surface is larger than a second curvature radius of a second part at the side of the pulley sheave contact surface. |
US07892123B2 |
Rotational force transmission member mounting structure
The present invention relates to a mounting structure for mounting firmly onto a rotating shaft a rotational force transmission member such as a chain sprocket, a gear, a belt pulley and the like. A drive sprocket as a rotational force transmission member is fitted into an end of the rotating shaft in a splined manner. A coned disc spring and a washer are positioned in sequence onto an outer face of the rotational force transmission member. The coned disc spring and the washer are supported and sandwiched by the screw fastening member to be screwed to an end of the rotating shaft and the rotational force transmission member. |
US07892121B2 |
Straddle-type vehicle
In a motorcycle having a V-belt type continuously variable transmission, a resin washer made of a nylon resin is interposed between a boss fixed to a moving sheave half of a secondary sheave and a spring bearing member. The boss contacts the spring bearing member through the resin washer, whereby the moving sheave half is restricted to a Top position, in which a spacing between it and a stationary sheave half becomes maximum. In this manner, the maximum speed is not changed by exchange of the V-belt, the V-belt does not slip or become considerably abraded or deteriorated, and noise generation is suppressed. |
US07892118B1 |
Basketball goal
A basketball goal provides a support that has upper and lower end portions. A backboard is affixed to the upper end portion of the support. A hoop or rim is affixed to the backboard. A jacking mechanism elevates the hoop when the hoop pivots downwardly when a player dunks a basketball through the hoop or rim. In such a case, the player typically contacts the rim or hoop with his or her hands or hand forcing it downwardly. With each such dunk shot, the rim or hoop is deflected downwardly and the jacking mechanism elevates the hoop about half an inch. A control positioned on the support enables the hoop to be selectively used in the jacking mode or in a fixed mode wherein the hoop or rim is affixed to a selected position in a selected elevation thus overriding the jacking mechanism. The control has multiple selectable positions including a position that engages the jacking mechanism and a fixed position that overrides the jacking mechanism. A third mode can be optionally provided that lowers the hoop or rim when the control is placed in the third, lowering position. |
US07892113B2 |
Golf ball
A golf ball which reduces the impact on the environment is provided. The golf ball, which may be a one-piece ball or a ball having a core and a cover of one or more layer, is composed at least in part of a biodegradable material. |
US07892105B2 |
Connection assembly for a golf club
A golf club including a club head and an interchangeable shaft is disclosed herein. A connection assembly (44) comprises a sleeve insert (47), a hosel sleeve (48), a hosel tube (46), a ring mechanism (48) and a guide ring (49). |
US07892100B2 |
Dual tapered shaft for FDB motor
For motors having a journal with one or more groove regions and a shaft for relative rotation in the journal, aspects include providing a dual tapered shaft. The shaft may be tapered by the application of a wear resistant coating at least opposite the groove regions. The coating introduces a shaft taper from near a top end and from near a bottom end towards the shaft middle. The shaft taper may provide for improved pumping efficiency. The coating may be applied in various processes such as chemical vapor deposition or physical vapor deposition to establish a thickness gradient of coating material from near the top end and near the bottom end towards the shaft middle. In one example, the coating includes a DLC coating. Additionally, shaft portions may be shielded to prevent coatings thereon. |
US07892099B2 |
Universal joint arrangement
A universal joint arrangement with a journal cross, supported by bearings in two joint yokes offset to one another by 90°. Each joint yoke comprises a flange and two bearings. Each bearing has an axial bearing mold element that is supported by a connection element on the joint yoke and at least indirectly on the journal cross to form a first and second friction pairing. The mold element has a planar face and a second face having at least one elevated support region facing the first or second friction pairing, and is arranged with the support region on the connection element, which elastically deflects under load. The regions on the second face other than the support region are free from contact with the connection element in every load state. The support region is arranged in the region of low relative movement of the connection element with the journal cross, while the regions other than the support region lie in the region of greatest relative motion. |
US07892096B2 |
Gaming machine with configurable button panel
According to one aspect of the invention, a gaming machine for conducting a wagering game, comprising a physically configurable button panel and at least one mechanical button removably disposed in the button panel. The gaming machine also comprises an input panel disposed adjacent to the button to produce an output signal in response to a predetermined movement of the button and a controller for initiating a function in response to the output signal. |
US07892090B2 |
Gaming device and method of operation thereof
A gaming device and method of operation thereof are provided in which the gaming device receives a loan request, which includes a loan amount, to establish a balance without having received payment therefor. The device sends a request signal to a controller of the gaming device communicating the loan request, and a balance is established with the gaming device. The gaming device in turn receives an approval signal from the controller of the gaming device regarding approval of the loan request. The loan amount may be less than or equal to the requested amount. A cash-out mechanism of the gaming device is enabled in accordance with the approval signal before the approval signal is received. |
US07892088B2 |
Gaming device having a second separate bonusing event
A gaming system wherein a second game is triggered once a specific event occurs in a first game. |
US07892087B1 |
Authentication of game results
A gaming system includes a game server and a client server. The client server requests random numeric outcomes from the game server and supplies various state and game information. The game server generates one or more random numeric outcomes. The game server communicates the random numeric outcomes to the client server to be used in making a win determination. For purposes of future authentication, the game server stores a digitally-signed file that includes the random numeric outcomes and the state and game information. |
US07892081B2 |
Gaming device having wild indicators
A gaming device having wild indicator symbols associated with symbols displayed within a display device on a set of reels. The wild indicator symbols may also be associated with a card or plurality of cards within a display device. A processor determines whether the wild indicators will be associated with the symbols or cards and also determines if the wild indicators will be activated. If the wild indicators are activated, the processor transforms those symbols or cards associated with the wild indicators into wild symbols or wild cards. |
US07892079B2 |
Detect-point-click (DPC) based gaming systems and techniques
Disclosed are a unique DPC (detect point click) based game system and method. The DPC based game system involves generating one or a plurality of DPC images, presenting them to a game participant, and collecting the participant's clicks (that identify which object in the DPC image the participant believes to be the correct DPC object), and determining whether the participant's clicks represent the correct object. DPC images can be created in part by selecting a base image, altering some portion of the base image to create at least one confusion image, mapping these images to a geometric model, and applying one or more distortion filters to at least one of the base or confusing image to obscure the DPC object from clear view. Locating the DPC object nearly hidden in the DPC image can advance the participant in the DPC based game or other game including DPC images as a part thereof. |
US07892076B2 |
Multibar apparatus and method for electrically stimulating a carcass
The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for the differential and purposeful stimulation of an animal carcass, i.e. substantially an entire animal carcass, without the purge problems typically found in the anterior and posterior portions of the animal carcass. In one embodiment, the method includes electrically stimulating at least a first section of the animal carcass to a first degree and electrically stimulating at least a second section of the animal carcass to a second degree less than the first degree. In one embodiment, the muscles of the midsection are electrically stimulated to a first degree and the muscles of the anterior and posterior end sections are electrically stimulated to a second degree less than the first degree. An apparatus for carrying out the methods of the present invention are further provided. |
US07892074B2 |
Surface modifying tool adapter using a plurality of surface modifying article inserts for use in a surface modifying system
A surface modifying apparatus, system, article, and method are disclosed for modifying a surface by surface modification, whereby inserts of surface modifying elements are quickly and easily replaceable on a carrier assembly therefor without being damaged during use. |
US07892073B1 |
Bowling ball abrader and polisher system and method
A bowling ball abrader and polisher utilizes cooperative rotational inter-engagement between a cup-shaped abrading an polishing tool and a non-motorized rotating ball holder assembly to obtain even, concentric abrasion patterns on a bowling ball surface. Upon placement of a bowling ball in a ball cradling surface formed in the rotating ball holder, application of the rotating abrading and polishing tool on the surface of the bowling ball causes a corresponding rotation of the bowling ball using the non-motorized rotating ball holder, which enables the outer surface of the bowling ball to be more uniformly abraded and polished. |
US07892070B2 |
Process of using a polishing apparatus including a platen window and a polishing pad
A polishing pad can include a first layer and a second layer. The first layer can have a first polishing surface and a first opening. The second layer can have an attaching surface and a second opening substantially contiguous with the first opening. The polishing pad can further include, a pad window lying within the first opening. The pad window can include a second polishing surface. When the pad would be attached to a platen, the first and second polishing surfaces can lie along a same plane, and an opposing surface of the pad window can abut an exterior surface of a platen window. In another aspect, a polishing apparatus can include an exterior surface of a platen window abutting the polishing pad. In still another aspect, a process of polishing can include polishing a workpiece such that the pad window contacts the workpiece and the platen window simultaneously. |
US07892064B2 |
Portable multifunction interactive play/activity backpack house
A portable backpack which doubles as a play activity center is disclosed. It is a portable entertainment center with numerous features for engaging young children in imaginative play. The front of the backpack is hinged to open an interior area where play toys and accessories can be located to simulate a dollhouse, space vehicle, barn or like play themes. The backpack is made of shape retaining materials that are nevertheless soft to the touch but crushable, and collapsible to minimize injury to the user and wear-and-tear during playful use by children. Various features such as a swing, ladder, escape hatch, windows, operable doors, promote imaginative play. Some embodiments of the backpack include colorful replicas of butterflies, beetles, etc. on the front to attract attention of peers to the backpack and its owner. |
US07892062B2 |
High-definition cathode ray tube and electron gun with lower power consumption
A high-definition CRT is provided having an electron gun to produce high beam current without increasing spot size and to provide lower electrical power requirements at high beam-modulation frequencies. The electron gun includes three electrodes having clusters of apertures to allow collimation of the electron beam from a cathode. The main lens is operated to focus a parallel beam of electrons on a display screen. Methods for manufacturing by mechanical or semiconductor methods are also provided. |
US07892058B1 |
Reinforced surfing boards
A surfing board and method for manufacture that include the cutting and bending of a buoyant material to a flat arch with a concave upperside and a convex underside to define an elongated body. T-shaped longitudinal cutouts extend from one end to the other along the upperside and underside, respectively. The T-shaped longitudinal cutouts are kept at a substantially parallel and spaced apart relationship with respect to each other with the vertical leg of the T-shaped cutouts coplanarly disposed opposite to each other and the crossed legs of the T-shaped cutouts substantially flush with the upperside and underside, respectively. Two elongated reinforcement core members are longitudinally coextensive with the body and being mounted within, and conforming to, the cutouts that are kept at a substantially parallel and spaced apart relationship with respect to each other. A predetermined degree of calibrated rigidity is given to the body conveying to a surfer the right combination of support and maneuverability of the board. A cover film to provide a substantially smooth surface for said body and exposed core members is applied. |
US07892052B2 |
Boat propulsion system, control device thereof, and control method
A boat propulsion system includes a power source, a propulsion unit, a propeller rotational speed detection section, a shift mechanism, an actuator, a control lever, a shift position detection section, an accelerator opening detection section, and a control unit. When the control lever is operated such that a shift position is changed from a first shift position to a second shift position, while the absolute value of accelerator opening varying speed becomes equal to or larger than a predetermined value, the control unit enables the actuator to maintain the first shift position until the rotational speed of a propeller becomes equal to or lower than a predetermined rotational speed and then to change to the second shift position. This minimizes a load generated on the power source, the power transmission mechanism, and other components of the boat propulsion system. |
US07892048B2 |
Cable end connector and method of assembling the same
An electrical connector (1), connected with a cable (5), comprises an insulative housing (2) having a plurality of cavities, a plurality of terminals (3) received in the cavities, and a latching member (4) attached to the housing. The latching member has a base plate (40) and a plurality of silos (44) extending from the base plate. A diameter of a channel (48) in each of the silos is slightly larger than a diameter of a corresponding wire (50) of the cable. During assembly of the connector and the cable, the wires of the cable extend through the channels of the latching member prior to connection of the terminals and the wires. |
US07892042B2 |
Connector with keying member
A connector is provided for terminating an end portion of a cable that includes a conductor. The connector includes a housing and a contact held by the housing. The contact is configured to be connected to the conductor of the cable. A keying member is rotatably held by the housing. The keying member is configured to cooperate with a keying element of a mating connector that mates with the connector. The keying member is movable about the housing such that the keying member is rotatably positioned to align with the keying element of the mating connector. |
US07892040B2 |
Communications connectors with jackwire contacts and printed circuit boards
Communications connectors having a plurality of signal carrying paths include a printed circuit board and a plurality of contacts. The printed circuit board has a plurality of contact pads, a plurality of output terminals, and a plurality of conductive paths that electrically connect at least some of the plurality of contact pads to respective ones of the plurality of output terminals. The contacts each have a plug contact region. In these connectors, a first of the plurality of signal carrying paths extends from the plug contact region of a first of the plurality of contacts to a first of the plurality of output terminals through a first of the contact pads and a first of the conductive paths. |
US07892039B2 |
Connector usable with multiple layered connections and method of use thereof
Various connectors are provided that allow establishment of one or more connections in minimal space. Numerous pins of typical radial pin related art connectors are replaced with longitudinally extending connector portions that are able to matingly engage a receiving connector portion. The connectors ease the initial manufacture of parts in which they are used, and allows the part to be more easily maintained, lighten the wiring system or harnessing system for the final product in which the part is incorporated over conventional connectors, and typically permit the harness and wiring system for the product to fit within an allotted envelope for size, weight, and other limitations. |
US07892036B2 |
Electrical wall tap assembly
An electrical wall tap assembly comprises a central portion, a male input connector, at least one female output connector, and an electrical subassembly. In this embodiment, the electrical subassembly comprises a top cover, an upper cover, a lower cover, a bottom cover, and electric power distribution circuitry. In this version, the top cover comprises at least one attachment aperture, and the lower cover comprises at least one attachment member configured to engage the at least one attachment aperture in the top cover. In this version, the electric power distribution circuitry electrically connects the male input connector and the at least one female output connector. In an alternate embodiment, an electrical wall tap assembly comprises an electrical subassembly and an outer covering configured to encase the electrical subassembly. In another embodiment, an electrical wall tap assembly comprises a male input connector, a plurality of female output connectors, and an electrical subassembly. |
US07892035B2 |
Electrical card connector with moveable housing
An electrical card connector includes a first insulative housing (1), a number of first contacts (2) mounted in the first housing and having a first soldering portion (22), a second insulative housing (4) located behind the first housing, a number of second contacts (5) mounted in the second housing and having a second soldering portion (51), and a shell (6) covering the first housing and the second housing. The first housing and the second housing is separated each other. A gap (9) is formed between the shell and the second housing. The second housing with the second contacts moves around the gap, corresponding to the first housing, and then the second soldering portion is adjusted, the first soldering portion and the second soldering portion are in coplanar, and soldered on the PCB without missing. |
US07892031B1 |
Quick insertion lamp assembly
A lamp assembly includes a light source, a contact base, a center contact and an outer contact. The contact base extends from a lower end to an upper end along a center axis. The upper end is interconnected with the light source and the lower end is configured to be received in a socket to mate the contact base with the socket. The center contact is disposed proximate the lower end of the contact base and is electronically coupled with the light source. The outer contact includes a ring body and an elongated contact tine. The ring body encircles the center contact proximate the lower end of the contact base. The center contact and the outer contact are mechanically and electrically coupled with the socket and electrically join the light source with an electric ground reference. |
US07892028B2 |
Cable connector assembly
A cable connector (100) includes an insulative housing (30), at least one terminal (70) received in the insulative housing, a metal cover (10) shielding the insulative housing and at least one cable (50) connecting with the at least one terminal. The cable includes a central conductor (507) and a braiding layer (503) coaxially surrounding the central conductor. The braiding layer of the cable and the metal cover are connected with each other by conductive adhesive (90). |
US07892027B2 |
Multiport receptacle connector having EMI shell interlocked to partitioning wall for preventing warpage
A receptacle connector comprising an insulative housing having a base portion; a plurality of terminals retained in the insulative housing; and a shielding shell assembled on the insulative housing. The shielding shell comprises a pair of sidewalls opposite to each other and forming a mating cavity therebetween. The insulative housing further including an alignment wall extending into the mating cavity from the base portion to partition the mating cavity into a number of mating openings, one of the mating opening having a shape different from another. Wherein at least one of the sidewalls has a bent portion bent from a front edge thereof, and the bent portion defines a hook at the tip thereof for adapting to retention at least one hole of the alignment wall of the insulative housing. Therefore, the strength of the receptacle connector may be improved. |
US07892025B2 |
Sealed connector assembly
A sealed connector system and components thereof is disclosed. The sealed connector system has a sealed cable assembly and a printed circuit board header assembly. The sealed cable assembly has a cable housing and a cable terminated thereto. A cover, as described above, is overmolded over a portion of the cable housing and a portion of the cable. The cover is one continuous member that acts as a seal to prevent contaminants from entering the cable housing. A printed circuit board header assembly is mated to the cable housing. The header assembly has recesses provided proximate a circuit board mounting surface, with the recesses being configured to provide additional space on a circuit board on which the header assembly is mounted. Legs or ribs may be provided proximate the ends of the circuit board contact area. The ribs provide stability to the printed circuit board connector and prevent the printed circuit board connector from being rotated relative to the printed circuit board. The sealed connector system may be provided with a cable housing ground shield proximate the header mating end of the cable housing and a header assembly ground shield may be provided in a cable housing receiving opening of the header assembly, whereby the cable housing ground shield and the header assembly ground shield are placed in electrical engagement with each other. |
US07892023B2 |
Connector capable of reading image
A connector capable of reading image includes an outer shell, a seat body, a rear lid body and an image-reading module. The outer shell has a front decorative plate, two sides of which are extended two lateral plates corresponding to each other, and an upper edge of which has a folded plate folded between the two lateral plates, and which has a plurality of perforations arranged thereon. The seat body is disposed in the outer shell and has a first interface and a second interface, both of which are arranged at a front face of the seat body and corresponded to the plural perforations. An electric connector is disposed in the second interface. The rear lid body is disposed at a rear side of the seat body. The image-reading module, which is disposed in the first interface, is comprised of a circuit board, a camera, a signal-converting unit and a plurality of electrically conductive terminals. After the camera reads the external image, the analogous signals are converted into digital signals by a signal-converting unit. Then, the digital signals are output via the plural thermally conductive terminals. |
US07892021B2 |
Lumped resistance electrical cable
A lumped resistance electrical cable has a multiple twisted pair ribbon cable having first and second conductive lines and twisted and untwisted portions. In the untwisted portions, one of the conductive lines on each of the twisted pairs is formed with an electrical open. Resistor blocks having resistive elements and electrical contacts is disposed on the untwisted portions with the electrical contacts electrically coupling the resistive elements across the electrical opens in the conductive lines. Other electrical contacts in the connector couple the other conductive lines of the twisted pairs to an ground plane formed on the resistor block. |
US07892018B1 |
Electrical connector assembly with two cable loading stop elements
An electrical connector assembly includes a housing and a cable loading stop element. The housing extends between a cable receiving end and an opposite mating end. The housing includes an inner surface that defines an opening extending through the housing from the cable receiving end to the mating end. The opening is shaped to receive a cable that is loaded into the housing through the cable receiving end. The cable loading stop element is coupled to the housing and protrudes into the opening from the inner surface of the housing. The cable loading stop element limits a distance that a jacket of the cable is loaded into the housing while permitting a wire disposed within the jacket of the cable to be moved within the opening across the cable loading stop element. |
US07892017B2 |
Biomedical electrode connectors
A biomedical electrode connector for coupling with a biomedical electrode of the type including an electrode base and a male terminal projecting from the electrode base is provided. |
US07892015B2 |
Electrical connector assembly with improved latching mechanism
An electrical connector assembly (100) comprises a housing (1) defining a pair of receiving spaces and a receiving room (10) therein and a pair of slits (13) formed at two sides of the housing and respectively communicated with the receiving space. The housing defines a pair of inclined ribs (123, 115) therein, the pair of receiving spaces and the receiving room are spaced from each other by the pair of the ribs. And a pair of latches (2) are respectively received into corresponding receiving space and engaged with the pair of inclined ribs of the housing, each latch having a base portion (21) received into a receiving space, a latching portion (22) extending outwardly and passing through the slit, a pressing portion (23) extending inwardly and rearwardly from a rear end of the base portion and disposed out of the housing, an elastic portion (24) extending inwardly from the base portion and attached to a side surface of the rib and an engaging portion (25) disposed at a front end of the latch and engaged with the rib. |
US07892012B1 |
Connector locking device
Embodiments of the present invention relate to a connector locking device for network cables and methods of utilizing the same. In one embodiment of the present invention, a self-releasing connector locking device comprises a locking tongue support for supporting a locking tongue of a connector, a first retaining mechanism for engaging a portion of a body of a terminal, and a first release arm for releasing the retaining mechanism from the portion of the body of the terminal. |
US07892010B2 |
Electric device with protective closure device for contact tubes of the plug receptacle
An electric device has a plug connection provided with a plug that has at least one contact pin and further provided with a mating plug receptacle that has at least one contact tube. A closure device is arranged on the plug receptacle and has a closed position for protecting the at least one contact tube. The closure device is moved by the plug into an open position when the plug is inserted into the plug receptacle, wherein in the open position the at least one contact tube is released. |
US07892009B2 |
Electrical connector having cover plate for reducing friction between cover and base
An electrical connector includes a base having a number of passageways, a cover mounted to the base, a cam mounted between the base and the cover, and a protecting mechanism. The cover has a number of through holes corresponding to the passageways and is capable of slidably moveable relative to the base. The cam is able to rotate to drive the cover to move relative to the base. The protecting mechanism includes a cover plate mounted in the cover and a base element mounted in the base. The cover plate includes a planar main portion, a via hole defined in a middle thereof, and a pair of stoppers bent toward the cover to engage to restrict the cam to rotate within a certain angle. |
US07892006B2 |
Connector having an improved fastener
A connector includes an insulative housing having a pair of side walls with a central slot formed therebetween, a set of terminals including first terminals and second terminals and an ejector. Each side wall has a set of passageways. Each first terminal has a first contacting portion protruding into the central slot, a first tail portion mounted on a PCB, and a first connecting portion. The first connecting portions and the first tail portions are arranged in two rows. |
US07892005B2 |
Click-tight coaxial cable continuity connector
A click-tight coaxial cable continuity connector is provided comprising a connector body, a post engageable with connector body, the post including a flange having a plurality of spaced-apart surface features. A nut is rotatably movable with respect to the post, wherein the nut includes an internal lip having a plurality of spaced-apart surface features, wherein the plurality of spaced-apart surface features of the nut are dimensioned to oppositely correspond in size, number and location to the plurality of spaced-apart surface features of the post. A click-tight continuity member is structurally configured to operably correspond with the dimensions of the plurality of spaced-apart surface features of the nut and also the spaced apart surface features of the post, the click-tight continuity member residing between the nut and the post. When the nut is rotated with respect to the post, the click-tight continuity member affords intermittent rotational resistance upon the nut, via structurally-induced compression forces resultant when the plurality of spaced-apart surface features of the nut are not oppositely correspondingly aligned with the plurality of spaced-apart surface features of the post. |
US07892003B2 |
Tool having integral plug
An electrical tool includes a main housing, an operative portion integrally connected to, and forming part of, the main housing, and a plug integrally connected to, and forming part of, the main housing. The plug comprising a base or main body, a plug connecting interface and first and second spades extending from the plug connecting interface. The first and second spades are in a standard configuration. |
US07892001B2 |
Floating connector
A floating connector that utilizes multiple cables or ribbon cable is described, the connector has two termination ends, each with a housing and conductive terminals. The housings have a stepped configuration having at least two different levels on which free ends of the cables are terminated to the terminals of the housing. The terminals extend from the steps to terminating faces that are mate with opposing receptacle connectors. The two housing are flexibly interconnected so that they may deflect relative to each other. |
US07891998B1 |
Card connector with detection terminal unit
A card connector includes an insulating housing, a detection terminal unit, and a shielding shell. The insulating housing defines a channel at a rear portion of a first side wall thereof. The detection terminal unit is mounted to the first side wall of the insulating housing and includes a contact terminal and a detection terminal. The contact terminal has a first elastic portion located in the channel and a contact portion formed at a free end of the first elastic portion. The detection terminal has a second elastic portion located inside of the contact terminal and a detection portion formed at a free end of the second elastic portion. When an electronic card is fully inserted into the card connector, the electronic card presses against the detection portion of the detection terminal and makes the detection portion deflect outwardly to electrically contact with the contact portion of the contact terminal. |
US07891996B2 |
Object fitting/removing drive unit, and connector unit
An object fitting/removing drive unit which is capable of enhancing accuracy of positioning and fitting of objects to be connected. To determine a position of a header connector on an imaginary plane which is orthogonal to a fitting/removing direction of a cable connector, cutouts which are fitted in flanges to position the flanges are formed in an inner frame. |
US07891992B2 |
Press-fit contact
A press-fit contact including a contact body with a square cross section and including a connecting region, a press-in region, and a tip region. Two legs are integrally formed within the contact body. The two legs originate at the connecting region and extend to the tip region where free ends of the two legs converge toward one another. The two legs are separated by a defined air gap in a longitude direction within the press-in region. The sum of the cross sections of the two legs substantially corresponds to the square cross section of the contact. |
US07891990B1 |
Electrical connector
An electrical connector adapted to be mounted in an electronic product includes an insulating housing, a plurality of terminals disposed in the insulating housing, a cover and an elastic band. The insulating housing has a front wall extending transversely and a sidewall extending rearward from a portion of the front wall. The sidewall defines a perforation longitudinally penetrating therethrough and further penetrating through the front wall. The cover is welded with a rear end of the sidewall to seal a rear end mouth of the perforation to stop water flowing into the electronic product along the perforation. The elastic band is transversely sleeved around a peripheral outer surface of the front wall to abut against corresponding insides of the electronic product for stopping water from flowing into the electronic product through chinks between the peripheral outer surface of the front wall and the corresponding insides of the electronic product. |
US07891987B2 |
Electric junction box
The electric junction box includes a box body, cassette block, relay, terminal fitting and rib. The box body includes a mounting hole. A groove is formed hollow from a surface of the cassette block. The relay is mounted on the surface of the cassette block. The terminal fitting is received in the cassette block. The rib extends from one inner wall surface to an opposite inner wall surface of the mounting hole. The cassette block is received in the mounting hole of the box body. The rib enters into the groove. |
US07891986B2 |
Cable assembly with EMI protection
A cable assembly comprises a housing defining a body portion with a front face, a pair of upper and lower tongue portions respectively extending forwardly from a top and bottom sides of the front face. The housing is configured by a metallic lower cover, a metallic upper cover assembled to the metallic lower cover and an insulative stand assembled to the metallic upper cover. A printed circuit board is disposed in a receiving room of the body portion of the housing and defines a mating portion extending forwardly from the front face of the housing and disposed between the upper and lower tongue portions and a terminating portion opposite to the mating portion. A cable is terminated to the terminating portion of the printed circuit board and extended out of the housing. And a latch is assembled to the insulative stand of the housing. |
US07891984B1 |
Electrical connector
An electrical connector includes at least one first insulating substrate having first tongues, at least one second insulating substrate having second tongues, and a plurality of contacts. One end of the first tongue connects to the first insulating substrate. There are through-holes in the first insulating substrate for the second tongues to pass through. One end of the second tongue connects to the second insulating substrate. With respect to the upper surface of the first insulating substrate, the other end of the first insulating substrates defines a first height difference, the other end of the second tongue defines a second height difference and the upper-most portion of the contact defines a third height difference which is larger than the first and second height differences. There are holes in the second insulating substrate for exposing the contacts. |
US07891979B2 |
Radio frequency coxial connector
A RF coaxial connector has an insulative housing, an internal terminal and an external terminal. The insulative housing has a cavity. The internal terminal is mounted in the cavity and has a mounting section, two resilient arms protruding from the mounting section, a free section formed between the resilient arms and a contacting section protruding from the free section. The external terminal is mounted on the insulative housing. The internal terminal provides sufficient resistance force against a pin conductor of a corresponding connector engaged with the RF coaxial connector for stable signal transmission. |
US07891975B2 |
Heat treatment apparatus and method of manufacturing substrate
Heat treatment apparatus and a method of manufacturing a substrate are provided, in which drop of particles produced by a rubbing action between a support strip and a support member can be prevented. Heat treatment apparatus 10 has a reactor 40 for treating a substrate, and a support tool 30 for supporting the substrate 54 in the reactor 40. The support tool 30 has a support part 57 to be contacted to the substrate 54, and a support strip 67 for supporting the support part 57. A back of the support part 57 has a convex portion or a concave portion, and the back of the support part 54 is configured to be not contacted to an edge of the support strip 67, and contacted to a top of the support strip 67 at inner than the edge of the support strip 67. |
US07891969B2 |
Injection molding nozzle
A nozzle for an injection molding apparatus is provided. The injection molding apparatus has a mold component that defines a mold cavity and a gate into the mold cavity. The nozzle includes a nozzle body, a heater, a tip, a tip surrounding piece and a mold component contacting piece. The nozzle body defines a nozzle body melt passage therethrough, that is adapted to receive melt from a melt source. The heater is thermally connected to the nozzle body for heating melt in the nozzle body. The tip defines a tip melt passage therethrough, that is downstream from the nozzle body melt passage, and that is adapted to be upstream from the gate. The tip surrounding piece is removably connected with respect to said nozzle body. The mold component contacting piece is connected with respect to the nozzle body. The material of the mold component contacting piece has a thermal conductivity that is less than at least one of the thermal conductivity of the material of the tip and the thermal conductivity of the material of the tip surrounding piece. |
US07891966B2 |
Depanning devices and methods of using same
Depanning devices and methods of using the depanning devices are provided. In an embodiment, the present disclosure provides a device comprising a rotatable support and a grid attached to the support. The grid comprises one or more movable gates and defines one or more passages. The device can further comprise a tray defining one or more recessed portions. The tray is removably attachable to the rotatable support. |
US07891964B2 |
Viscosity pump for extrusion-based deposition systems
A pump system comprising a delivery assembly configured to feed a solid material under operational power of a first drive motor, and a screw pump comprising a housing that at least partially defines a barrel of the screw pump, an extrusion tip secured to the housing at a first end of the barrel, a liquefier secured to the housing and intersecting with the barrel, and an impeller extending at least partially through the barrel. The liquefier is configured to receive the solid material fed from the delivery assembly, to at least partially melt the received solid material, and to direct the at least partially melted material to the barrel, and the impeller is configured to drive the at least partially melted material that is directed to the barrel toward the extrusion tip under operational power of a second drive motor. |
US07891955B2 |
Compressor having a dual slide valve assembly
A compressor having a dual slide valve assembly is disclosed. The slide valve assembly includes: i) a volume slide valve mechanism that is slidably movable to control compressor volume ratio and power input to the compressor; and ii) a capacity and volume slide valve mechanism that is in operational association with the volume slide valve mechanism, and the capacity and volume slide valve mechanism is slidably movable to control compressor capacity and to control volume ratio and power input to the compressor. In at least some embodiments, the compressor is a rotary gas compressor for a compression (e.g., refrigeration) system. A method of increasing compressor efficiency using the dual slide valve assembly is also disclosed. Compressor volume load and/or volume ratio and/or compressor power input can be simultaneously controlled by both the volume slide mechanism and the capacity and volume slide mechanism. Advantageously, compressor efficiency is increased. |
US07891952B2 |
Rotary machine components and methods of fabricating such components
A method for fabricating a rotor assembly for a turbine, the turbine including a central rotational axis is provided. The method includes forging a first rotor component from a first material, separately forging a second rotor component from a second material, and coupling the second rotor component to the first rotor component at a location radially inward of the first rotor component. The second rotor component is coupled to the first rotor component in at least one axial-circumferential plane that is at least one of substantially parallel and obliquely oriented with respect to the central rotational axis. |
US07891946B2 |
Wind power plant and rotor blade adjusting drive therefor
The present invention relates to a rotor blade adjusting drive for adjusting the pitch angle of a rotor blade of a wind power plant, comprising a drive train which at the output end can be connected with the rotor blade and/or a bearing member supporting the rotor blade, and a spring accumulator connectable with the drive train, which includes a spring accumulator shaft, a spring accumulator housing and a spring means which can be tensioned by rotating spring accumulator shaft and spring accumulator housing relative to each other, wherein the spring accumulator shaft and/or the spring accumulator housing can be uncoupled from the drive train and is rotatable with respect to the same for biasing the spring accumulator, wherein a braking device is provided for retarding and/or holding the spring accumulator shaft and/or the spring accumulator housing against the spring bias in the uncoupled condition of the spring accumulator. |
US07891945B2 |
Methods for plugging turbine wheel holes
A method for plugging a turbine wheel hole in a turbine wheel. The method may include the steps of: 1) obtaining a turbine wheel hole plug that includes an approximate cylindrical body, a first flange at a first end of the body, and a hollow cylinder at the second end of the body, wherein the body, the first flange and the hollow cylinder are sized such that: a) the cylindrical body fits snuggly into the turbine wheel hole; b) the first flange comprises a diameter that is greater than the diameter of the turbine wheel hole; and c) the hollow cylinder protrudes from one end of the turbine wheel hole when the turbine wheel hole plug is inserted into the other end of the turbine wheel hole until the first flange abuts the turbine wheel; 2) positioning the turbine wheel hole plug into the turbine wheel hole; and 3) deforming the hollow cylinder so that the hollow cylinder flares outward. |
US07891940B2 |
Water wave power system
A system for generating energy using water waves includes a unit having two rotors connected by a ramp. The unit is positioned at or near the surface of a body of water and oriented so that the waves break on the ramp and travel along the length of the ramp. Each rotor is provided with a plurality of buckets having an open top and a bottom having a opening. The opening is sealed by a flap when water enters through the top of the bucket, but is open when water enters or attempts to enter the bucket through the opening. As the water travels along the ramp, the water is fed into the buckets on the rotors to turn the rotors and drive generators positioned at both ends of the rotors. The energy is transmitted to an external collection point for use or distribution. |
US07891938B2 |
Multi sensor clearance probe
A multi sensor clearance probe with at least longitudinally and transversely spaced apart first and second sensors operable to measure first and second distances respectively between the sensors and a longitudinally spaced apart rotating rotor. The sensors being operable to measure blade tip clearances between radially outer turbine blade tips and an annular stator shroud circumscribing the blade tips. The blade tips may be squealer tips and the sensors operable to measure the distances between the sensors and tops of squealer tip walls and outwardly facing walls within cavities of the squealer tips. The probe may be operably connected to a controller for sending signals to the controller indicating the first and second distances for controlling an air valve used for active clearance control. Two or more of the probe may be used to determine rotor centerline offset. |
US07891934B2 |
Robot
Disclosed is a robot which is compact in structure and may be movable in a large working range, wherein move members 1, 1 may be moved by drive devices 4, 4 respectively along a straight line and in parallel with each other, the drive devices 4, 4 including motors 40, 40 respectively which are individually controlled by a control device 9, so that the move members 1, 1 may be moved at a different speed and may be stopped at different relative positions. The move members 1, 1 are connected to a work holder 3 by means of arms 2, 2, the arms having one end pivotally connected to the move members 1, 1 at the pivots 10, 10 thereof respectively, the arms 2, 2 having the opposite end pivotally connected to the work holder 3 at the pivots 30, 30 thereof respectively. The work holder 3 may hold an optional jig and may be moved in a horizontal plane and in a vertical plane enabling the jig to work in the working plane. |
US07891932B2 |
Straight conveying device for vacuum
A working rod with a tip end extending into a vacuum process chamber and moving in the axial direction, two static-pressure gas bearings supporting the rod in the non-contact manner, and an internal moving body of a magnet coupling type driving mechanism driving the rod are housed in a rod housing cylindrical portion leading to the vacuum process chamber, and an exhaust portion by suction is provided at a part of the rod housing cylindrical portion so that the pressure of the rod housing cylindrical portion is lowered than the pressure of the vacuum process chamber by the exhaust from the exhaust portion. |
US07891929B2 |
Carriage system
A running rail 9 and a second overhead vehicle 12 are arranged parallel to a running rail 7 for a first overhead vehicle 10 and closer to inspection devices 20 than the running rail 7. A buffer 14 is provided below the running rail 7. The overhead vehicle 12 conveys a cassette 40 between load ports 24 and the buffer 14. The overhead vehicle 10 conveys the cassette 40 between the buffer 14 and other positions. The present invention can deal with inspection devices or the like which have a high throughput by locally improving their conveying capability. |
US07891928B2 |
Folded portion flattening device, post treatment apparatus and image forming apparatus
A folded portion flattening device has: a sheet conveying section that conveys a booklet of folded sheets in a predetermined conveyance direction with a folded portion ahead; a sheet stopper that stops the booklet conveyed by the sheet conveying section at a fixed position; a pair of booklet holding members that hold the booklet stopped by the sheet stopper by gripping the booklet at both faces of the booklet; a pressing member that presses the front end of the folded portion of the booklet held by the booklet holding members in an opposite direction to the conveyance direction, so that a curve at the front end of the folded portion is flattened to form a flat face; and a wrinkle preventing member that prevents wrinkle from being generated in the flat face when pressed by the pressing member. |
US07891927B2 |
Fastening apparatus with tolerance compensation
A fastening apparatus for fastening a component B to a component A enables an automatic compensation of tolerances in the separation distance between the two components. The apparatus consists of a receiving element 2, which can be fixed on the component A, an adjustment element 4, which can be screwed to the receiving element via a first thread pairing 28, 48 of a first thread direction, and a fastening screw 6, which can be screwed into the receiving element 2 via a second thread pairing 54, 56 of the opposite thread direction and can be connected with the adjustment element 4 via a detachable drag connection 46, 54, in order to also turn the adjustment element 4 when the fastening screw 6 is turned and to thereby move for the purpose of tolerance compensation in abutment with component B. When screwed to the receiving element 2, the adjustment element 4 can be moved to an end position serving as transport and installation position, in which the receiving element 2 and the adjustment element 4 are held together in one of several pre-determined angle positions via a detachable latch connection. |
US07891917B2 |
Automatic brake shoe drilling machine and method
Apparatus and method are provided for automatically drilling work pieces, including drilling of rivet holes in standard and heavy-duty brake shoe linings for the truck, bus, overhead crane, wheel drum and heavy machinery industries. Apparatus and method are customizable to accommodate various sizes of work pieces, and programmable for drilling of multiple holes and handling of multiple work pieces, as required by manufacturers. |
US07891914B2 |
Geotextile tube
A geotextile tube is provided. The geotextile tube includes a first sheet and second sheet that both have first portions with a first weave pattern and second portions with a second weave pattern. The first portion of the first sheet covers a larger surface area than the second portion of the first sheet. Likewise, the first portion of the second sheet covers a larger surface area than the second portion of the second sheet. A seam contacts and attaches the second portion of the first sheet to the second portion of the second sheet. |
US07891913B2 |
Gabion deployment
A gabion deployment system comprising: a container (30) for retaining a gabion (22) and a gabion (22) of the folding type comprising hingedly attached, connected side walls (16 & 18) and cross-members (12) such that it can be folded for storage and deployed for use; a retaining means (50) associated with the container (30) for retaining the gabion (20) in the container; and at least one releasable attaching, connecting or retentive engaging means (66) for attaching, connecting or retentively engaging at least one part of the gabion (22) to the retaining means (50); wherein the at least one releasable attaching, connecting or retentively engaging means (66) is adapted to attach, connect or retentively engage a part of the gabion (22) to the retaining means (50) when the gabion (22) is folded but to release the gabion (22) from the retaining means (50) when the gabion (22) is deployed. |
US07891912B2 |
Two stage mechanically stabilized earth wall system
A system for securing a facing comprising a wire grid that is positionally fixed relative to an earthen formation in a substantially vertical position, a formation anchor that is positionally fixed between the wire grid and the earthen formation, a facing that is laterally offset a distance from the wire grid and having a facing anchor, and a turnbuckle that is rotatably coupled between a first connector and a second connector, wherein the first connector is coupled to the facing anchor and the second connector is coupled to the formation anchor, such that rotation of the turnbuckle relative to the first and second connectors adjusts the distance between the wire grid and the facing. |
US07891910B2 |
Foundation structure
Method of installing a bucket foundation structure comprising one, two, three or more skirts, into soils in a controlled manner. The method comprises two stages: a first stage being a design phase and the second stage being an installation phase. In the first stage, design parameters are determined relating to the loads on the finished foundation structure; soil profile on the location of installation; allowable installation tolerances, which parameters are used to estimate the minimum diameter and length of the skirts of the bucket. The bucket size is used to simulate load situations and penetration into foundation soil, in order to predict necessary penetration force, required suction inside the bucket and critical suction pressures, which penetration force, required suction, and critical suction pressures are used as input for a control system in the second stage, in which second stage the pa-rameters determined in the first stage are used in order to control the installation of the bucket. |
US07891905B2 |
Railing installation apparatus and method
A railing installation apparatus comprises a support platform adapted to be displaced alongside a road. An installation unit is connected to the support platform. The installation unit comprises a feed conveyor unit feeding rails to a carriage unit. The carriage unit is actuated to orient rails to an installation position against posts, and to twist a series of rails connected at one end to the posts to an overlapping position with rails in the feed conveyor unit for end-to-end attachment of the rails. |
US07891901B2 |
Ready lock ring binder mechanism
A ring binder mechanism that retains loose-leaf pages. The mechanism includes a housing and hinge plates supported by the housing for pivoting about a pivot axis relative to the housing. The mechanism further includes rings that hold the loose-leaf pages. Each ring includes two ring members. A first ring member is mounted on a first hinge plate and can move therewith relative to a second ring member. In a closed position, the two ring members form a substantially continuous, closed loop for allowing loose-leaf pages retained by the rings to be moved along the rings from one ring member to the other. In an open position, the two ring members form a discontinuous, open loop for adding or removing loose-leaf pages from the rings. Additionally the mechanism comprises an actuator that is pivotally mounted on the housing and can move relative to the housing for controlling the pivoting motion of the hinge plates and closing the ring members. A travel bar has a connection to the actuator for blocking the hinge plate's pivoting motion when the ring members are closed. The connection between the travel bar and actuator permits the actuator to move in a range without actuating corresponding movement of the travel bar. |
US07891900B2 |
Stain and sealant applicator
An applicator system comprises a reservoir, a conduit extending from a first end at the reservoir to an opposite terminal end, an applicator connected with the conduit, a flow control engaging the conduit, and a holder releasably coupling with the applicator. The applicator has a liquid impermeable back, an opposite porous face, and a plenum. The plenum, situated between the back and face, releasably couples with the conduit terminal end and distributes fluid to the face. The face and plenum may be replaceable and disposable. The holder is a rigid member that releasably couples with the applicator, provides a structural foundation to the applicator, and includes a handle for manipulation by a user. An extension can be employed to connect the flow control to the handle, effectively extending the length of the handle. A helical coil portion of the conduit can be conveniently wrapped around the extension to prevent kinking. |
US07891897B2 |
Travel multiplier mechanisms for writing instruments
A writing instrument includes a travel multiplier mechanism that includes a cam member that pivots about a pivot axis in response to motion of a push button member. The cam member engages a sliding piston member in order to provide a travel multiplying effect such that a distance of travel of the sliding piston member exceeds a distance traveled by the push button member. The cam member may be configured to rotate about an axis that is located in a plane perpendicular to a primary axis of a barrel of the writing instrument. |
US07891895B2 |
Receipt printer configurable for full or partial cut
A receipt printer having a scissor cutter for cutting off a receipt from a paper roll. The scissor cutter includes a moving blade that articulates across an adjustable stationary blade. The adjustable stationary blade is adjustable laterally according to whether a full cut or a partial cut across the paper roll is desired. If a full cut is desired, the stationary blade is positioned against the full width of the paper roll. If a partial cut is desired, the stationary blade is positioned against only a portion of the width of the paper roll. |
US07891893B2 |
Printing apparatus including plural printheads and a drive mechanism for the platen rollers
A thermal printer includes a first thermal head, a first platen roller, first biasing means, a second thermal head, a second platen roller, and second biasing means. The first thermal head, the first platen roller, the first biasing means are in contact with a heat-sensitive layer of thermal recording paper. The second thermal head, the second platen roller, and the second biasing means are in contact with a heat-sensitive layer of the thermal recording paper. The second thermal head is arranged on the upstream side of the first thermal head in a paper feed direction. A paper feed speed of the first platen roller to the thermal recording paper is larger than a paper feed speed of the second platen roller. The first platen roller is in contact with the thermal recording paper while being more slippery compared with the second platen roller. |
US07891890B2 |
Shutter device and image pickup apparatus including the same
A shutter device includes first and second shutter blades, a shutter base plate rotatably supporting the first and second shutter blades, a partition plate arranged between the first and second shutter blades supported by the shutter base plate, and a cover plate fixed to the shutter base plate while the first and second shutter blades are supported by the shutter base plate and the partition plate is arranged between the first and second shutter blades. The first and second shutter blades, the partition plate, and the cover plate have conductivity. The cover plate is electrically connected to the partition plate. The cover plate has a potential at a ground level. |
US07891885B2 |
Optical module
An optical module 10 has a laser light source 20, optical branching means 24 for receiving laser light from the laser light source 20, making a part of the laser light pass through the optical branching means and branching a remaining part of the laser light; a photodetecting portion 30P receiving the remaining part of the laser light branched from the optical branching means 24 and a package 11 holding therein the laser light source 20, the optical branching means 24 and the photodetecting portion 30P, the package 11 having stray light reducing means 200, 201 and 202 provided therein to reduce stray light generated inside the package. |
US07891881B2 |
Drawn cup roller bearing
A drawn cup roller bearing includes: an outer ring including a raceway surface; a first rib formed at one end of the outer ring by being bent substantially perpendicular to the raceway surface; a second rib formed at the other end of the outer ring by being bent inwardly so as to be substantially parallel to the raceway surface; a cage including pockets for holding rollers, respectively; and an annular projection stopper which is projected radially outwardly and provided over an entire outer circumference at a pocket side position of an outer circumferential surface of the cage. An end surface of the cage abuts against a part of the first rib and the annular projection stopper is interposed between an end surface of the second rib and the rollers in a state that the cage is assembled into the outer ring. |
US07891880B2 |
Radial rolling bearing, especially single-row deep groove rolling bearing
A radial rolling bearing, which has an outer bearing ring, an inner bearing ring, and rollers, which are arranged between the bearing rings and held at uniform distances from one another in a peripheral direction by a bearing cage in individual cage pockets. The rollers are spherical disks that have parallel lateral surfaces which are symmetrically flattened from a basic spherical shape and which roll in groove-type raceways with their faces. The raceways are incorporated into the inner face of the outer bearing ring and the outer face of the inner bearing ring. The rollers are axially guided between the bearing rings via two low-friction line contacts between lateral surfaces and the longitudinal webs of the cage pockets. The rollers are configured to have a defined degree of freedom for self-alignment to the pressure angle of the radial rolling bearing. |
US07891876B2 |
Linear roller bearing
Linear rolling bearing, having a guide carriage (1) which can be provided so as to be longitudinally movable on a guide rail (2) and in which rolling bodies (4) circulate in an endless rolling body channel (3) which has a load section (5) and a return section (6) and deflecting sections (7) which connect the load section (5) to the return section (6) in an endless fashion and which are in each case provided on a head piece (10) of the guide carriage (1) and have in each case one outer deflection (12) for the deflection of the rolling bodies (4), with the outer deflection (12) being formed from a plastic whose flexibility is specified by a quotient determined from the ratio of fracture strain to fracture stress, which quotient is greater than 0.15 in magnitude, with the fracture strain being specified in percent and the fracture stress being specified in megapascals. |
US07891873B2 |
System for automatic testing of a digital X-ray detector
The present invention relates to radiography, including medical radiography, specifically to the apparatus for controlling the technical characteristics of digital radiographic devices, and is intended to maintain self-diagnostics of digital X-ray detectors. The self-diagnostics system of digital X-ray detectors comprises a radiographic screen positioned in the radiation pathway from the radiographic source, an optical transfer system for transmitting an image from the screen to the photosensitive CCD-matrix-based sensor, and incorporates at least three test structures installed in the emission plane of a radiographic screen. The technical result is achieved due to the fact that the test structures are positioned outside the radiographic screen emitting surface and are provided with controlled sources of primary radiation installed so that each test structure is located in the direct ray path from the said sources. |
US07891868B2 |
Temperature sensor and semiconductor memory device using the same
A temperature sensor comprises a pulse signal generating unit for generating a first pulse signal having an enable section, a width of which is adjusted according to a reference voltage having a temperature characteristic, an oscillator for generating a second pulse signal of a predetermined period in the enable section of the first pulse signal, and a counter for performing a counting operation in response to the second pulse signal and generating at least one temperature signal. |
US07891865B2 |
Structure for bolometric on-chip temperature sensor
Disclosed is a design structure for an improved on-chip temperature sensing circuit, based on bolometry, which provides self calibration of the on-chip temperature sensors for ideality and an associated method of sensing temperature at a specific on-chip location. The circuit comprises a temperature sensor, an identical reference sensor with a thermally coupled heater and a comparator. The comparator is adapted to receive and compare the outputs from both the temperature and reference sensors and to drive the heater with current until the outputs match. Based on the current forced into the heater, the temperature rise of the reference sensor can be calculated, which in this state, is equal to that of the temperature sensor. |
US07891862B2 |
Electromechanical escapement device and timepiece part utilizing such a device
The electromechanical escapement device is associated with an electronic circuit having a quartz oscillator and calculation means suitable for calculating the difference between the period of the quartz oscillator and the period of a mechanical oscillator and releasing an escape wheel, normally controlled by said mechanical oscillator, when the difference between said periods is greater than a threshold value. |
US07891861B2 |
Mixing method and mixer for mixing polymer dope, and solution casting process and apparatus
A mixer in a solution casting system mixes liquid additive with polymer dope fed through a flow line and constituted by cellulose ester as polymer and solvent. A mixer housing is in the flow line for passing the polymer dope through to be mixed. A supply conduit causes flow of the liquid additive for addition to the polymer dope. A distribution channel is formed with the supply conduit, positioned in the flow line, for spreading the liquid additive in a transverse direction of a flow passage in the flow line, to eject the liquid additive. A rotor hub is shaped with a decreasing diameter, contained in the mixer housing, opposed to the distribution channel, and directs the polymer dope in a ring shape after addition of the liquid additive. The flow line collects the polymer dope in a position downstream from the rotor hub. |
US07891858B2 |
Display
A display includes a display panel, a light guide plate arranged on the back side of the display panel, an LED arranged in the vicinity of the side surface of the light guide plate, a circuit board arranged on the back side of the light guide plate, and a plurality of TABs connecting the display panel and the circuit board. The LEDs are arranged between the plurality of TABs in the plan view, and the TAB is arranged to overlap the LED in the side view. In order to achieve uniform illumination with no unevenness in luminance, the TAB and the spot light source are preferably arranged alternately. |
US07891856B2 |
Optical film
The subject invention provides an optical film comprising a transparent substrate and a structured surface layer, wherein the structured layer is positioned on the upper surface of the substrate and comprises a plurality of non-parallel, adjacent columnar structures. The optical film according to the subject invention can effectively enhance the brightness of a liquid crystal display and reduce the optical interference. |
US07891852B2 |
Illumination system using phosphor remote from light source
The invention provides an illumination system and a method for illumination. The illumination system includes one or more light sources that produce a primary light, a light-mixing zone that homogenizes the primary light, a wavelength-converting layer that converts the primary light to a secondary light, and a light-transmitting zone that receives the secondary light and transmits the secondary light to, for example, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD). |
US07891850B2 |
Bumper module
The present invention relates to a bumper module 1 having an integrated support structure for headlight 6, by means of which the installation of headlight 6 with a visually satisfactory profile in the front region of the motor vehicle is facilitated. |
US07891848B2 |
Lighting assembly and related methods
A lighting assembly and associated methods are provided. An example of an embodiment of a lighting assembly includes a lighting fixture base and a plurality of elongate decorative elements each having a male fitting connected to the proximal end portion of the decorative elements. The attached male fittings, formed of a ferromagnetic material, are each configured to be inserted into a female fitting. The lighting assembly also includes a corresponding plurality of female fittings each connected to separate portions of the lighting fixture base. Each female fitting can include a magnet positioned within a portion of a male fitting-receiving recess, adjacent the proximal end portion of the female fitting. The combination of male and female fittings is such that when inserted into a female fitting, each male fitting is magnetically coupled to one of the female fittings to releasably connect its associated decorative element to the lighting fixture base. |
US07891847B2 |
Light emitter sub-assemblies especially containing an array of light emitting devices (LEDs) and modules containing such sub-assemblies which provide lighting apparatuses, especially light bars for mounting on a vehicle
A sub-assembly for a light-projecting module has an array of LEDs mounted on a circuit board potted in a tray at the bottom thereof by a solidified body of potting material. The body of potting material and the tray are heat-conductive and serve to dissipate heat generated by the LEDs. A light-emitting module includes the sub-assembly and a reflector. The reflector has a base which is assembled in heat-conductive relationship with the tray, so as to facilitate dissipation of heat generated by the LEDs. The reflector is a parabolic reflector which collects light from the LEDs and projects the light as a beam. The reflector contains an optical element for concentrating or diffusing the light projected from the module. The module may be assembled in a housing having an opening through which the light projects so as to provide a light bar suitable for mounting on the dash or windshield of a vehicle. A plurality of modules may be assembled around the edge of a frame which is contained in a cover of translucent material, whereby light, which may be of different colors depending upon the LEDs, is projected omni-directionally through the cover. |
US07891846B2 |
Light source apparatus, optical apparatus, and image projection apparatus
A light source apparatus is disclosed which allows effective cooling of an arc tube even with a small amount of wind. The light source apparatus has a light emitter and a reflector which reflects light from the light emitter and causes the reflected light to emerge. The light source apparatus also has a wind-guiding member which has a flow inlet and a flow outlet of cooling wind and has a wall portion at a position opposite to the flow inlet, the wall portion guiding the cooling wind toward the light emitter in the reflector. The light source apparatus which has a reflector to which an arc tube is fixed via a connecting member, and has a first flow path on which cooling wind from a fan flows to cool an area of the arc tube closer to the connecting member, and a second flow path on which cooling wind from the fan flows to cool an area of the arc tube closer to a light emitting portion. The second flow path is formed separately from the first flow path. |
US07891843B2 |
LED lighting device
An LED lighting device is provided, which does not create dazzling effects, has no difference in brightness in accordance with viewing angles, and has superior interior effects. The LED lighting device includes an LED irradiating light onto an outside, a first lens having a lower part in which the LED is provided and having a convex form to diffuse the light incident from the LED through the lower part thereof to the outside, and a second lens provided on the outside of the first lens and having a rough surface formed on its inner surface to diffusedly reflect the light diffused through the first lens. |
US07891842B2 |
Heat-dissipating reflector for lighting device
A heat-dissipating reflector for a lighting device having a reflecting surface for reflecting light from a light emitting source of the lighting device, and a plurality of ventilation openings formed through the reflecting surface for dissipating heat generated by the light emitting source. |
US07891836B2 |
Semiconductor light-emitting device with improved heatsinking
The present invention relates to a light-emitting device comprising a substrate, a circuitry, a LED in electrical connection with said circuitry, and a heat sink arranged to transport heat away from the LED, wherein the LED is in thermal contact with said heat sink through an opening in said substrate. The present invention also relates to methods for the manufacture of such a device. |
US07891833B2 |
Rechargeable flashlight and battery assembly for single-handed intermittent and continuous operation
A rechargeable flashlight is also provided. The flashlight includes a housing having a battery compartment and a light source adjacent a first end of the housing. A rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides power for the flashlight. A controller circuit serially connected with the battery is operable to control the flow of electricity to and from the battery. Specifically, the controller circuit is operable to disconnect the lithium-ion battery cell from the light source in response to the charge in the lithium-ion battery depleting below a pre-determined lower threshold. The control circuit is further operable to disconnect the lithium-ion battery cell from electrical connection with the first charging contact when the lithium-ion battery is connected with a battery charger and the charge in the lithium-ion battery reaches a pre-determined upper threshold. |
US07891831B2 |
Self-illumination glove
A self-illumination glove for use in poor visibility or dim conditions, the orientation of the light head is adjustable to prevent the light being blocked by the hand movement. The glove body is adapted for load and unloads an illumination unit. The illumination unit includes at least one flexible arm which is extended along and above the dorsum side of the glove body from the power source to the light head and out of the outer glove layer through the through slot, such that the light head is selectively adjusted the orientation when the bendable portion of the flexible arm is adjustably bent. |
US07891827B2 |
Projector
A projector, includes: a light source, an optical modulator that modulates a light beam emitted from the light source to form an optical image, a projection optical device that projects the formed optical image, an exterior casing that accommodates the light source, the optical modulator and the projection optical device, the exterior casing provided with a hole in which a fixing member fixing the projector at a predetermined position is inserted, the hole penetrating the exterior casing, an attaching member engaged with the fixed member that is inserted through the hole at a position corresponding to the hole in the exterior casing, the attaching member having a flange portion facing an inner surface of the exterior casing, the flange portion having an outer diameter larger than an inner diameter of the hole, and an interposed member disposed between the inner surface of the exterior casing and the flange portion, the interposed member having an outer diameter larger than an outer diameter of the flange portion. |
US07891826B2 |
Projector
A projector includes: an image creation unit that projects image information upon a screen, comprising a plurality of picture elements that create an image pattern corresponding to the image information; and an illumination unit in which light emitting members are disposed upon a vertical plane with respect to an optical axis which passes through a center of the image creation unit, at equal distances from the optical axis and moreover in different locations. |
US07891821B2 |
Laser beam transformer and projector having stacked plates
An original laser-radiation beam having a symmetrical M2 but poor beam quality is sliced in one transverse axis, by a fanned-out stack of parallel transparent plates, into a plurality of beam slices. The beam-slices are also spread by the stack of plates in another transverse axis perpendicular to the first axis. A fanned-out stack of glass blocks aligns the spread beam-slices in the first axis to form what is effectively a single beam having an asymmetric M2, with beam quality improved in one axis and degraded in the other compared with the original beam. The effective single beam is projected into a line of radiation by a cylindrical lens, or by a homogenizing projector including spaced apart cylindrical lens arrays followed by a spherical condenser lens. |
US07891820B2 |
Projector and method for igniting lamp
The invention discloses a method for igniting a lamp of a projector. The method includes steps of: (a) sensing a first temperature difference in response to power-off of the projector; (b) in response to power-on of the projector, detecting an aftercooling time and judging whether it is smaller than a predetermined cooling time, if YES, perform step (c); otherwise, perform step (g); (c) sensing a second temperature difference; (d) judging whether a ratio of the second temperature difference to the first temperature difference is larger than a threshold, if YES, perform step (e); otherwise, perform step (g); (e) calculating a re-cooling time; (f) controlling a fan to operate for the re-cooling time to cool the lamp down; and (g) igniting the lamp. |
US07891818B2 |
System and method for aligning RGB light in a single modulator projector
A projection system that includes a singe light modulation device and a plurality of light sources of different wavelengths. Each wavelength of light is incident on the light modulation device at a spatially distinct location and a temporally distinct time. The use of a scanning mirror allows the projection system to sequentially form, in full-color, each of the columns or rows of an image. The projection system is characterized by the reduction of color separation or the rainbow effect due to the rendering of each column or row in full color. |
US07891816B2 |
Stereo projection using polarized solid state light sources
A stereoscopic digital image projector includes (a) a plurality of light modulation assemblies, each comprising: (i) at least one solid-state light source energizable to provide illumination having a first polarization axis; (ii) a polarization rotator disposed in the path of the polarized illumination from the solid-state light source(s) and actuable to controllably rotate the polarization axis from the solid-state light source(s) to a second polarized axis; (iii) a micro-electromechanical spatial light modulator in the path of the polarized illumination and energizable to modulate the polarized illumination to form a first modulated light from illumination of the first polarization state and to form a second modulated light from illumination of the second polarization state; and (b) a synchronizing means to temporally control the polarization rotation to match the appropriate image data on the spatial light modulator; and (c) projection optics for directing the first and second modulated light toward a display surface. |
US07891811B2 |
System and method for axis identification in astigmatic cataract surgery
A method and system for identifying an astigmatic axis having a camera and light mounted to a slit lamp for taking a photo of a patient's eye. A template having a rotatable dial is set using a schematic diagram. The template is transferred to the photo and the correct axis is marked through slots on the template. |
US07891810B2 |
Multifocal contact lens
The present invention provides a multifocal contact lens comprising a central contact lens area having a size, a position, and an optical power; an outer contact lens area having a size, a position, and an optical power; wherein the size, the position, and the optical power of the central contact lens area and the outer contact lens area are determined according to a measurement of the size of the pupil under a first light condition, a measurement of the reactivity of the pupil under a varying light condition or a varying focal demand, and a measurement of movement of the pupil under a varying light condition or a varying focal demand. |
US07891807B2 |
Decorative eyeglass temples
Eyeglasses having temples with detachable decorative pieces. The decorative pieces generally comprise an inner piece and outer piece which connect to one another through and/or around the eyeglass temples. When attached together, the outer decorative piece and the inner decorative piece are supported by and attached to the eyeglass temples. |
US07891799B2 |
Metallic ink jet printing system for graphics applications
A multi-phase system for creating a metallic effect on a substrate includes applying to the substrate a first ink jet ink having a dispersion of reflective metallic particles in a suitable carrier system, to form a reflective coating layer; and applying a second ink jet ink over the reflective coating layer to form a protective coating layer. Optionally, an undercoat layer is printed on the substrate prior to applying the first ink jet ink. The second ink jet having at least one crosslinkable polymer or is otherwise energy curable. The second ink jet ink optionally imparts a color to the metallic image. |
US07891798B2 |
Micro-fluidic device having an improved filter layer and method for assembling a micro-fluidic device
A method for assembling a micro-fluidic device better preserves the integrity of a filter in a filter layer and simplifies the bonding of the filter layer to the channel layers on each side of the filter layer. The method includes aligning a polymer layer having a plurality of filter elements and a plurality of fluid passages arranged between the filter elements between two substrates of a micro-fluidic device, and bonding the polymer layer between the two substrates to seal an area between the filter elements and the fluid passages to enable fluid flow through the filter elements to be segregated from fluid flow through the fluid passages. |
US07891793B2 |
Ink stick with electronically-readable memory device
A machine, such as a phase change or solid ink printing apparatus, includes at least one ink stick and a coupler external to the ink stick. The ink stick has an electronically-readable memory device attached thereto, with the memory device having stored therein electronic data associated with the ink stick. The coupler is configured to read the electronic data from the memory device. The data in the memory device may include identification data, anti-arbitrage variables, usage data, maximum use values, and performance data related to the ink stick, and the coupler and memory device may employ various means for communicating this data. Also, communication between the coupler and memory device facilitates a method for determining a quantity of marking material in the machine. |
US07891791B2 |
Refillable ink cartridge with inbuilt printhead
A refillable ink cartridge that has a pagewidth printhead supported on a moulding assembly that defines the ink reservoirs. The printhead has a series of holes etched on a back surface thereof for the supply of ink to a front surface of the printhead for ejection. The moulding assembly has an elongate top moulding piece and an elongate bottom moulding piece that together define a plurality of elongate ink reservoirs. The bottom moulding piece having apertures for supplying ink to the series of holes on the back surface of the pagewidth printhead. Each of the ink reservoirs are in fluid communication with at least one of the apertures but each of the apertures are in fluid communication with only one of the ink reservoirs. Each of the ink reservoirs are in fluid communication with a respective refill port and corresponding air vent. |
US07891782B2 |
Liquid injecting head, method of manufacturing liquid injecting head, and liquid injecting device
A liquid injecting head includes a flow path forming substrate in which a pressure generating chamber communicated with a nozzle opening that injects liquid is formed, a pressure generating element that is formed so as to apply pressure to the pressure generating chamber for injecting the liquid, a lead electrode that is connected to the pressure generating element, a wiring substrate having flexibility that is connected to the lead electrode, and a support member that is bonded to the wiring substrate. A fixing opening formed by perforating the wiring substrate in the thickness direction is disposed, and the wiring substrate and the support member are bonded together through an adhesive agent disposed inside the fixing opening. |
US07891779B2 |
Inkjet printhead with nozzle layer defining etchant holes
The current invention provides for an inkjet printhead for an inkjet printer. The inkjet printhead includes a wafer substrate defining an ink supply channel. Side wall portions extend away from one surface of the wafer substrate, and a nozzle layer supported on the side wall portions and extending parallel to said one surface of the wafer substrate. The nozzle layer and the side wall portions define an array of nozzle chambers for receiving ink. The nozzle layer defines ink ejection ports and etchant holes. The etchant holes are of sufficient diameter to retain ink in the nozzle chamber by surface tension. Each nozzle chamber has a thermal actuators cantilevered on the wafer substrate. The actuator partitions the nozzle chamber and has a heater layer which produces thermal expansion of said actuator upon activation. |
US07891778B2 |
Inkjet printhead assembly for symmetrical vapor bubble formation
An inkjet printhead assembly comprises a substrate defining a plurality of ink inlet passages; drive circuitry arranged on the substrate; a plurality of nozzle chamber structures arranged on the substrate and defining (i) nozzle chambers in fluid communication with respective ink inlet passages, and (ii) ink ejection ports in fluid communication with respective nozzle chambers; and a heater element suspended within and spanning each nozzle chamber, the heater element connected to the drive circuitry to heat ink in the nozzle chamber to form a vapor bubble around the heater element, the heater element being positioned within the nozzle chamber such that a distance between a point of collapse of the vapor bubble and respective ink ejection ports is less than 50 microns. The heater element is provided with a double omega configuration having symmetrical gaps at opposed sides thereof, whereby symmetrical formation of the vapor bubble centered on an axis of the nozzle is effected. |
US07891777B2 |
Inkjet printhead with heaters mounted proximate thin nozzle layer
An inkjet printhead for ejecting drops of a printing fluid onto a media substrate. The inkjet printhead has an array of nozzle apertures defined in a nozzle layer less than 10 microns thick and a heater element adjacent each of the nozzles respectively for heating printing fluid to form a vapor bubble that ejects a drop of the printing fluid through the nozzle aperture corresponding to that heater element. The heater element is a layer of resistive material extending parallel to the nozzle layer and spaced less than 50 microns from the nozzle layer. |
US07891776B2 |
Nozzle arrangement with different sized heater elements
A nozzle arrangement for ejecting ink comprises a substrate assembly defining an ink supply passage and incorporating a drive circuitry layer; a heater positioned on the substrate assembly, the heater having a pair of heater elements connected to electrical contacts, which electrical contacts are electrically coupled to the drive circuitry layer; and a nozzle chamber structure extending from said heater to define a nozzle chamber in fluid communication with the ink supply passage and in which the heater element is located, the nozzle chamber structure defining an aperture through which ink in the nozzle chamber is ejected when current is supplied from the drive circuitry layer to the heater element. The electrical contacts each have an enlarged cross-sectional area relative to the cross-section area of the heater element. A first heater element of the pair of heater elements has a surface area larger than that of the second heater element of the pair of heater elements. |
US07891775B2 |
Inkjet drop ejection apparatus with radially extending thermal actuators
An inkjet drop ejection apparatus comprises an array of ink ejection nozzles; a chamber corresponding to each ink ejection nozzle and for storing ink; and a plurality of actuators provided on top of each chamber, the actuators radially extending out from a common center and defining an ink ejection port at the common center. Each actuator is comprised of first material of surrounding a conductive core of a second material. Each actuator is adapted to bend inward with respect to the chamber when heated. |
US07891773B2 |
Low voltage nozzle assembly for an inkjet printer
A nozzle assembly for an inkjet printhead is disclosed. The nozzle assembly includes an inkjet nozzle having an actuator for ejecting an ink droplet from the inkjet nozzle when a resistive element of the actuator is heated by an electrical current. A drive transistor provides an energy pulse to the resistive element of the actuator, and control logic controls the drive transistor. The voltage of the energy pulse is less than 10 V. |
US07891768B2 |
Printhead assembly with an ink supply arrangement having printhead segment carriers
A printhead assembly which includes an ink supply arrangement having a profile member defining a semi-open cross-section with peripheral, structured side walls having free, opposing, lengthwise running edges delineating a gap extending along the entire length of the profile member, said profile member defining three internal webs that stand out from a base wall section of the peripheral wall into the interior of said member so as to define together with the side wall sections ink supply channels which are open towards the gap. The assembly also includes a plurality of printhead segment carriers operatively fast with the ink supply arrangement so that the ink supply channels are arranged in fluid communication with a printhead operatively supported on said segments. Also included is a shield plate supported by the profile member, said plate for protecting the printhead during printing. |
US07891766B2 |
Printhead having combined printhead module types
A printhead is provided which has a plurality of types of printheads modules. Each type of module is determined by its geometric shape in plan so that the combination of the determined module types forms the printhead to extend and print across a pagewidth. At least one row of printhead nozzles defined across the determined types of modules includes at least one displaced row portion. |
US07891753B2 |
Inkjet recording apparatus
The present invention provides an inkjet recording apparatus, which performs high resolution image recording by inhibiting propagation of heat from a light-radiation device to a recording medium, is provided with a recording medium conveyance device to convey a recording medium in a conveyance direction; a recording head 10 to emit ink from a nozzle towards the recording medium; a first supporting member 5 to convey the recording medium so that the recording medium faces the recording head; a light radiation device 16 to radiate an activation energy ray towards the in emitted from the recording head; and a second support member 7 to convey the recording medium in a conveyance direction so that the recording medium faces the light radiation device; wherein between the first supporting member 5 and the second supporting member 7, in a recording medium conveyance direction, there are disposed a guide section 6 having a cooling device. |
US07891752B2 |
Inkjet apparatus and calibration methods thereof
An Inkjet apparatus is provided. An Inkjet apparatus includes a piezoelectric inkjet print head, a plurality of driving unit, a detection unit and a control unit. The piezoelectric inkjet print head comprises a plurality of nozzles, wherein each the nozzle outputs an ink drop according to a driving voltage. The driving unit generates the driving voltage according to a control signal. The detection unit detects a state of the ink drop corresponding to the nozzle to generate a detection signal. The control unit generates the control signal to control the driving voltage according to the detection signal. |
US07891750B2 |
Ink-droplet ejecting apparatus
A driving pulse signal for forming one dot includes a first, a second, and a third main pulses applied intermittently with an intervals to eject an ink droplet, and a stabilizing pulse which is inserted between the main pulses, and which suppresses a residual vibration of an ink in a pressure chamber, generated by a main pulse applied previously. The third main pulse suppresses the residual vibration of the ink generated by the second main pulse, and also a pulse width of the third pulse is adjusted such that there is no residual vibration remained, due to application of the last main pulse. Consequently, it is possible to suppress effectively the residual vibration of the ink by the less number of the stabilizing pulses compared to the number of main pulses. As a result, an overall pulse width becomes short, and it is possible to increase the recording speed. |
US07891748B2 |
Print engine controller having controller circuitry with an open actuator test circuit
Provided is a print engine controller for an inkjet printhead with a plurality of nozzle arrangements operatively actuated by thermal actuators. The controller has controller circuitry with an open actuator test circuit to test each respective actuator. The controller circuitry includes an open actuator test input, a column enable input and a row enable input, as well as a drive transistor operatively linking said thermal actuator to a power supply. The circuitry also includes a bleed transistor arranged in parallel with the thermal actuator, and a sense transistor operatively linking an output of the drive transistor and inputs of the thermal actuator and bleed transistor to a sensing node. The controller circuitry is configured so that when only the column enable and row enable inputs are activated the bleed and sense transistors are deactivated and the drive transistor is activated to link the thermal actuator to the power supply. |
US07891747B2 |
Glass cabinet for storage and/or display of objects
A glass cabinet for storage and/or display of objects includes a front, a rear (2), a right (3) and a left lateral surface (4), a bottom piece (5) and an upper piece (6) forming the top, at least one lateral surface, for example, the front lateral surface being formed as a glass door (1), in the closed state of the glass cabinet, the interior thereof being sealed in an airtight manner to the environment and the door (1) being mounted displaceably laterally parallel by a guide means mounted in the region of the upper piece or the lower piece or respectively in the region of the upper and the lower piece until release of half of the door opening. In this position, the guide means is formed in such a manner that the projecting part of the door (1) can be pivoted in this position so far that this part of the door (1) adjoins the left (3) or right lateral surface (4). Such a design of a glass cabinet is particularly suitable for those with a very large width. |
US07891746B2 |
Braking device for motorcycle
A braking device for a motorcycle for controlling a sudden increase in the braking force caused by a time lag from the time the amount of operation of a brake operating portion is detected until a change in hydraulic pressure of wheel braking means for improving the feel of braking. An input-side pressure sensor detects a master cylinder pressure and a hydraulic modulator creates a hydraulic pressure to be exerted on a brake caliper. A controller is provided for controlling the hydraulic pressure created by the hydraulic modulator in accordance with a detected signal provided from the input-side pressure sensor. In accordance with a change in the quantity per unit time of the detected signal provided from the input-side pressure sensor the controller limits a change speed of the hydraulic pressure created by the hydraulic modulator. |
US07891745B2 |
Wheels, vehicles and methods of manufacturing same
A wheel includes a hub, a rim, and spokes. The hub includes inner attachment portions and is configured to support the wheel about a rotational axis. The spokes are attached to the hub and the rim and are together configured to radially support the rim with respect to the hub. In one embodiment, the spokes are attached to the hub with fasteners extending into threaded apertures in the hub, and the spokes are attached to the rim with fasteners extending in a direction parallel with the rotational axis. In another embodiment, respective ones of the spokes, which are attached to a common inner attachment portion of the hub, are not attached to adjacent outer attachment portions of the rim. Vehicles and methods of manufacturing a wheel are also provided. |
US07891743B2 |
Locking hub cap for wheel hub assembly
The present disclosure provides a locking hub cap having at least one locking feature that engages at least one locking feature on a vehicle hub assembly to prevent a spin-on nut from being removed while the locking hub cap is in place. |
US07891742B2 |
Construction machine, in particular road milling machine, recycler or stabilizer, and drive train for construction machines of this type
A construction machine, in particular road milling machine, recycler or stabilizer, with a machine frame (4) that is carried by a chassis (2) with a working drum (6) and a drive train (8) comprising at the least a drive engine (10), a traction mechanism (12) for the mechanical drive of the working drum (6) with a drive element, an output element and a traction element (30), a device (14) for switching the torque between the drive engine (10) and working drum (6), and device (16) for driving at least one hydraulic pump; it is provided that elements of the drive train (8) are divided into at least two groups, the first group (3) shows at least the drive engine (10), the second group (5) shows at least the drive element (11) of the traction mechanism, and where the first and the second groups (3, 5) are connected to one another via an articulated coupling device (20). |
US07891740B2 |
Composite vehicle seat frame
A vehicle seat and vehicle seat back frame are disclosed with a plastic frame substrate extending across a rear surface of a seat back. A steel frame portion is connected to the plastic frame substrate within the seat back. The steel frame portion has an upper cross member extending across an upper region of the substrate, an intermediate member extending from the upper cross member, and a lower cross member extending across the lower region of the substrate. The substrate structurally reinforces the steel frame portion with a reduced weight. |
US07891739B2 |
Apparatus for mounting a wheelchair back
An apparatus for mounting a wheelchair back that provides a high degree of support and adjustability such that it can be used with wheelchairs that originate from a wide variety of different manufacturers. In order to provide this custom fit, the present invention provide for depth adjustability, height adjustability and angle adjustability of a wheelchair back. The present invention also provides the convenience of a quick-release wheelchair back so that the wheelchair occupant can easily remove the back of the wheelchair from the canes so that the wheelchair can be collapsed and stored. The present mounting system also provides a two point mounting system that is reliable yet simple to use. |
US07891735B2 |
Hook member and latch structure of upholstery material
A hook member is provided and includes a pinching portion that pinches a plate body of a seat frame, a fixing portion that can fix an upholstery material, and an introduction portion defining an opening into the fixing portion, wherein the fixing portion faces an outer side of the plate body and is pinched by the pinching portion, and includes the introduction portion having a curved shape and defining an opening for the upholstery material to enter and be fixed therein. |
US07891732B2 |
Extendable sunshade for child car seat
An all weather sunshade system for infant carriers includes a main sunshade that is pivotally attached to the infant carrier and an integrally provided sunshade extension. The main sunshade is selectively deployable and includes curved semi-rigid members which support a fabric material and includes a front edge. A rear edge of the sunshade extension is secured along the front edge of the main sunshade structure and is sized and shaped so that it may be selectively drawn forward, when the main sunshade is fully deployed, and secured around a front portion of the infant carrier. In doing so, the sunshade extension remains taut following the contours defined by the shape of the front edge of the main sunshade and the perimeter shape of the front edge of the infant carrier. |
US07891724B2 |
Safety window in foldable cab door
In combination, a foldable door assembly and sliding window assembly for vehicles is disclosed. The combination allows the driver of the vehicle to see through the window assembly, open it, and adjust a rearview mirror allowing operation of the vehicle with the foldable door to be in the closed position. The door assembly has a first section and a second section hingeably connected to one another. The second section rotates and folds against the first section. The first section has a rear edge hingeably connected to a truck body so that the first section of the door assembly rotates to an open position onto the truck body from a closed position. The first section defines an opening for placement of a frame having a track which holds a sliding window. |
US07891723B2 |
Motor vehicle with a convertible body
A motor vehicle is provided with a convertible body. The motor vehicle comprises a body provided with seats and a convertible roof, consisting of a front section adjacent to a windscreen frame and a rear section, which is pivotally connected to the rear part of the vehicle. The two sections are hingedly connected to each other and are constructed so that they are capable of rotating relative to each other and to the body from the initial position to the end position and are enabled to be placed in the body rear part. When the convertible roof is placed in the vehicle rear part, the front section thereof occupies substantially a vertical position directly behind the seats and the rear section occupies substantially a horizontal position in the rear part of the vehicle. The front roof section where it is joined to the windscreen frame is shaped to the body bottom shape behind the seats. The front roof section's embodiment allows it to partially overlap the rear section such that at least one part of the front section overlapping the rear section is made of a transparent material. |
US07891720B2 |
Double folding seat for vehicle
A double folding seat for a vehicle may include a stationary bracket, coupled to the seatback frame and to the cushion frame, wherein the recliner bracket is coupled to the one end of the stationary bracket, a link unit elastically installed on the stationary bracket and configured to be selectively coupled to the recliner bracket and transmit a rotating force of the recliner bracket to a latch cam installed to the cushion frame, a stopper fixedly installed on the leg assembly which is connected to a vehicle body, a hinge member rotatably mounted on the cushion frame and rotated by the stopper, and an actuating wire connecting the hinge member and the link unit and displacing the link unit by a rotation force of the hinge member to a position where the link unit cooperates with the recliner bracket when the cushion frame moves backwards to the final position thereof. |
US07891718B2 |
Device for lifting and moving window frames
Provided as a hoist system for installing a plurality of panels of a panel set onto a building structure at a jobsite. The hoist system comprises a beam assembly configured to hoist the panels and sequentially offload the panels from the beam assembly onto the building structure. The beam assembly comprises an elongate hoist beam, a lifting lug, a plurality of trolleys mounted on one of the opposing ends of hoist beam, and a drive mechanism operative to reposition the lifting lug along the hoist beam such that the hoist beams maintain a substantially horizontal or level orientation. |
US07891716B2 |
Cover installation tool
An installation tool may include an extension member, a body portion disposed on the extension member, and a plurality of fingers flexibly protruding from the body portion. The plurality of fingers are adapted to releasably engage a cover assembly. The plurality of fingers and the body portion cooperate to retain the cover assembly in a first direction and allow disengagement of the cover assembly in a second direction. |
US07891712B2 |
Sealing connector and assembly
The sealing connector ensures sealing between a gas cartridge having an outlet fitting and a transmission member for filling a combustion chamber of a gas fastening device having an inlet fitting with gas and includes two internal sealing sleeves for receiving the two fittings, at least one of which is made of flexible material, with, at the bottom of this sleeve, a flexible transverse annular partition for dimensional adjustment, and an external slide. A rigid transverse annular partition is provided at the bottom of the other of the two sleeves to serve as a support for a fitting. |
US07891709B2 |
Sealing member for exhaust pipe of dryer
A sealing member of an exhaust pipe of a dryer prevents vibration of the exhaust pipe secured to an opening in a sheet of glass or a wall from transmission, and prevents exhaust gas from leaking from connection portions of a plurality of exhaust pipes. |
US07891703B2 |
Retainer and inflator
An inflator includes a plate-like retainer that is placed in a pressure container of the inflator for producing gas to be supplied to an airbag. At the center of inflator is formed a fitting section fitted to a tube placed in the pressure container. The tube separates an ignition source and a gas generation agent. At least one pressure release hole is provided on the outer side of the outer periphery of the fitting section. The retainer has a step formed at a portion where the outer periphery of the retainer is in contact with the filter. The retainer and inflator may have simple structures not affecting productivity and reliably preventing gas leakage between the retainer and a filter. |
US07891698B2 |
Air bag module mounted steering wheel
A plate is provided on an air bag module, and a first pin on which a recessed portion is formed and a second pin on which a recessed portion is formed are provided in positions which are spaced apart from each other. A first clip adapted to be brought into engagement with the recessed portion and a second clip adapted to be brought into engagement with the recessed portion are provided on a steering wheel main body. In addition, bushes for biasing the plate in a direction in which the plate is separated from the steering wheel main body are provided between a first snap-fit portion which is made up of the first pin and the first clip and a second snap-fit portion which is made up of the second pin and the second clip. |
US07891697B1 |
Trailer having a folding and load bearing platform
A folding trailer suitable for being towed behind a vehicle includes a platform having a center section, a forward section, and a rearward section. A first hinge element engages the center section and the forward section and has a first rotational centerline that is above the center section. The first hinge element enables the forward section to be folded relative to the center section. A second hinge element engages the center section and the rearward section and has a second rotational centerline. The second rotational centerline is longitudinally spaced apart from the first rotational centerline and above the center section. The second rotational centerline is vertically offset from the first rotational centerline and enables the rearward section to be folded relative to the center section. The rearward section engages the second hinge element for rotation about the second rotational centerline relative to the center section. When the trailer is in a folded position, the rearward section is positioned between the center section and the forward section. |
US07891696B2 |
Multifunctional foldable mobility base
A foldable wheel chair or mobility base is disclosed that comprises a chair portion and a wheeled frame. The chair portion has a back hinged to a seat. The frame supports the chair portion, a spaced pair of front wheel caster assemblies and a spaced pair of rear wheels. A lower end of the back of the chair portion attaches to the frame via two spaced brackets which are slidably connected to upright curved rear support members such that they can be moved along the curved rear support members to permit adjustment of the chair tilt between predetermined stop positions along the curved rear support members without changing a seat to back angle. The chair portion is connected to the frame via front support members and diagonal struts connected to common pins fastened to each of the front wheel caster assemblies. The other end of each diagonal strut is hinged to one of the spaced brackets. The chair preferably provides a different distance between front and rear wheels at different seat to back angles and tilt positions of the chair portion. Further, the configuration permits virtually independent adjustment of chair portion tilt, seat to back angles and permits a separate dynamic movement of the seat to back angle to facilitate therapeutic exercise capability for a chair occupant. |
US07891695B2 |
Upright wheelchair
An upright wheelchair with a chassis (29, 22), a seat (2) arranged pivotably on the chassis (29, 22), which can be pivoted from a substantially horizontal seating position to a substantially vertical standing position during upright motion, and at least one footrest (16) arranged on the chassis (29, 22), which is lowered to the ground in the standing position, is characterised in that when the seat (2) is in the seating position the footrest (16) is inclined at an angle (α) relative to the horizontal (H) and the angle (α) returns to zero during upright motion. |
US07891694B2 |
Method for machining the running surfaces of winter sports appliances
The invention relates to a method for machining the running surfaces (9) of winter sports appliances such as skis or snowboards, in which a blank track (20) is subjected to a machining process in order to obtain a predetermined surface microstructure which improves the gliding ability. A precisely defined and reproducible surface structure of the track is achieved in such a way that the machining process for producing the surface microstructure comprises a plastic deformation by a tool (5, 5a) which is moved over a running surface (9) of the track blank (20) and is pressed with a predetermined force on the track blank (20) in order to deform the same in a plastic manner. The invention further relates to a winter sports appliance which is produced with such a method and an apparatus for performing the method. |
US07891684B1 |
Decoupled 5-link independent rear suspension
A decoupled 5-link independent rear suspension system (IRS) for motor vehicles. Three lateral linkages, the toe, camber and spring links, establish the wheel plane orientation and react to vertical and lateral loads, and two longitudinal links, the upper and lower trailing links, react to tractive loads and brake torques. The upper and lower trailing links are longitudinally orientated and disposed outboard of the body rail, thus allowing for improved load reactions of the suspension system, as well as optimization of the body rail configuration and space accommodation for other vehicle components, such as for example fuel, batteries and exhaust. |
US07891683B2 |
Torsion-beam rear axle of a vehicle
A torsion-beam rear axle of a vehicle, more preferably motor vehicle, is provided with two rigid trailing arms, which with their one end are each mounted on a vehicle body in a manner capable of being swiveled and at the other end of which a wheel carrier is each attached for the rotatable mounting of a vehicle wheel about its wheel center axis, as well as with a torsionally soft cross-tie connecting the two trailing arms with each other. Each wheel carrier, by means of at least three elastic wheel carrier bearings is fixed to the trailing arm when viewed in forward driving direction of the vehicle, at least two wheel carrier bearings are arranged behind the wheel center axis, and at least one wheel carrier bearing is arranged in front of the wheel center axis in such a manner that through the two wheel carrier bearings arranged behind the wheel center axis to define a swivel axis for the swiveling of the wheel carrier relative to the trailing arm. |
US07891678B2 |
Wagon with removal bins
A wagon assembly for carrying items and materials typically used in lawn and garden care. The wagon assembly has a wheeled unitary body construction that forms a storage compartment. A storage bin can be placed inside the compartment or beneath and external the storage compartment. A lid is positionable over the storage compartment having recesses formed within the lid for holding of various items including a cushion, the recesses each having a drain to avoid the collection of water. A handle is provided by use of a flexible and detachable pull strap. The strap is adjustable in length and allows pulling of the wagon at most as well as hands free operation when desired. |
US07891676B1 |
Portable utility transport
A portable utility transport adaptable to multiple wheel and axel combinations. The wheelbase is adjustable and the undercarriage is pivotal permitting them to fold under the carrier frame in a stowed orientation. The elongated guidance frame creates a lever utilizing the rolling fulcrum over the front or rear wheels. The guidance frame is pivotally attached to the carrier frame allow it to be laid virtually flat upon the carrier frame. |
US07891674B2 |
Torsionally flexible axle with active control of the steering angle using a hydroelastic joint
A suspended axle for a motor vehicle comprising a torsionally flexible beam (1), in which axle each wheel carrier (5) is mounted via a pivot (16) and, some distance away from the pivot, via a wheel-steering device, the steering device comprising a hydroelastic articulation, the device further comprises a steering operating system, the system comprising means designed to vary the volume of an incompressible fluid so as to bring about the steering of the wheel (2). |
US07891673B2 |
Seamless control of spring stiffness in a liquid spring system
A vibration control system for a structure having a first structural member and a second structural member. The vibration control system having a liquid spring operably interposed between the first structural member and the second structural member. The liquid spring uses a compressible liquid to seamlessly generate spring and/or damping forces in the suspension system in response to relative displacement between the first structural member and the second structural member. A second volume of compressible liquid is located in a second chamber. The second volume is removably connected to the liquid spring by a fluid passage. A valve is coupled to the fluid passage, the valve selectively operable to place the second volume in communication with the liquid spring. A controller is electrically coupled to the valve. The controller emitting a control signal to control the valve. |
US07891672B2 |
Chuck having a rotatable securing mechanism
A chuck for clamping an article has a receiving portion including a receiving bore having a longitudinal axis L, and a receiving bore inner surface. A clamping sleeve is accommodated in the receiving bore and is rotatable between a releasing position and a securing position. The clamping sleeve has a radially outwardly facing contoured clamping surface provided with one on more clamping segments, each clamping segment having a ramp between a trough and a crest, and a depression on the other side of the crest. Rotating the clamping sleeve within the receiving bore causes one or more rollers associated with each clamping segment to cooperate with the contoured clamping surface to effect the releasing and the securing of the article. |
US07891669B2 |
Piston ring with chromium nitride coating for internal combustion engines
The invention relates to a piston ring for internal combustion engines, the piston ring comprises a steel or cast iron base material with a coating of chromium nitride deposited by a physical vapor deposition process on a sliding surface of the piston ring, wherein the coating is composed of a columnar crystal structure of CrN with the following features: (a) an oxygen content in solid solution of 0.5 to 2.5 wt %; (b) a content of uniformly dispersed micro-pores of less than 10% in volume of the coating; and (c) an X-ray diffraction intensity ratio of (111) planes to (200) planes parallel to the surface in the range of 0.80 to 1.20. |
US07891667B2 |
Game imitating the catching of fish by plug casting
A fishing apparatus for simulating the catching of fish is taught herein. A preferred embodiment comprises a horizontal fish support, one or more fish-shaped members releasably mounted on the fish support, each fish-shaped member having a tapered mouth extending in front of the fish's mouth and a line slot that terminates in a patch of hook and loop material. A cast plug will carry a mating patch of the same material so that when the plug is drawn toward the user through the guide slot, the plug will engage the fish-shaped member, thereby pulling it away from the fish support in a manner simulating the catching of fish in actual water. |
US07891666B2 |
Device and method for measuring a shot force exerted on a movable game device
For measuring a shot force exerted on a movable game device, a time curve of the acceleration during the shot or of the pressure within the game device during the shot is recorded and processed to obtain an energy measure, said energy measure then serving to provide information about the shot force. |
US07891665B1 |
Game piece storing and scoring product
A score-keeping product for an anagram game that has a pouch for storing a plurality of anagram game cubes therein; a pair of slide members that each can be linearly moved between open and closed positions with each slide member, in an at least partially open position, enabling access to the interior of pouch so that the anagram game cubes can be stored or removed therefrom for the purpose of playing the game cubes with each of the slide members including a scoring pointer; and a pair of scoring indicia on the pouch and each disposed along a linear locus that extends respectively along side of a corresponding slide member with each scoring indicia provided with a series of score markers. The slide members are selectively movable so that the corresponding scoring pointer can be progressively moved to align with one of the series of score markers in scoring the game. |
US07891660B2 |
Device for the transport of sheets by means of a chain-driven gripper bar
In a device for the transport of sheets in a sheet-processing machine, preferably a printing press, provision is made to transport the sheets on chain-guided gripper bars. The gripper bars are fixed respectively to two chain links arranged indirectly beside each other. The forces acting on the gripper bars are more evenly distributed. |
US07891656B1 |
Sheet feeding apparatus with sheet releasing mechanism
A sheet feeding apparatus includes a sheet releasing mechanism, a casing, a sheet feeding channel, a sheet pick-up module and a driving shaft. The sheet releasing mechanism includes a control lever and a base. The control lever includes a protruding part. The base includes a first restriction groove and a second restriction groove. When the protruding part is accommodated within the first restriction groove, the sheet releasing mechanism is in a sheet-holding status. When the protruding part is accommodated within the second restriction groove, the sheet releasing mechanism is in a sheet-releasing status. |
US07891653B2 |
Bill recycling machine
A bill recycle machine including a push plate exerting pressure on bills, which can apply separation pressure required for separating bills and also can be elevated upward and downward so as to prevent the push plate from being interfered with by a pickup roller when untaken bills is collected again. The bill recycle machine includes: a front plate forming a wall surface of a front side of a bill receiving space formed at a lower part of a shutter, a push plate which forms a first bill receiving space between the push plate and the front plate, a stack plate installed at an opposite side of the first bill receiving space, based on the push plate, so as to support bills stacked by a stack wheel; and a transfer plate forming a second bill receiving space between the transfer plate and the stack plate. |
US07891651B2 |
Post-processing apparatus and image forming system
A post-processing apparatus including a conveyance unit containing a stacker for storing a plurality of sheets placed one on top of the other and a conveyance path having a curvature for ejecting a plurality of sheets placed one on top of the other in the stacker and a control section for controlling conveyance of sheets, wherein the control section controls aligning the plurality of sheets in the conveyance unit, feeding a plurality of sheets placed one on top of the other to a roller through the conveyance path having a curvature, driving the conveyance roller so as to feed the plurality of sheets, hitting the sheet ends against a stopper so as to align the sheet ends, further conveying the sheets with the ends aligned until a loop is formed on sheets, and punching the sheets using by a punching section subsequent to formation of the loop. |
US07891641B1 |
Manual disengaging and self-engaging clutch
A clutch mechanism (75) for use with a machine to disengage the machine until normal operation thereof is commenced. The clutch mechanism (75) includes a clutch engaging member (130) movable into engagement with a notch (77) of the ring gear (76) of a planetary gear stage (70) to engage the clutch, and movable out of engagement with the ring gear (76) to disengage the clutch mechanism (75). The clutch engaging member (130) is spring biased to a position in which the clutch mechanism is engaged. A manually-operated handle (120) moves the clutch engaging member (130) via a link (128) and clutch actuator (122) from a clutch engaging position to a clutch disengaging position. An over-center position of the link (128) and clutch actuator (122) maintains the clutch in a disengaged condition, until normal operation of the machine is commenced, whereupon a protrusion (256) on the clutch actuator (122) is struck and the clutch actuator (122) is forced back to the engaged position, thus self engaging the clutch on commencement of normal machine operation. |
US07891639B2 |
Aligned and axially loaded pig injector valve
The present invention relates to an apparatus for a flanged connection between a tubular member having a flange and a valve fitting having a valve flange and a valve body, and in particular to an apparatus for axially loading the mated threads of the valve flange and the valve body after geometrical alignment of the bolt holes of the flange on the tubular member and of the bolt holes of the valve flange. |
US07891634B1 |
Adjustable support rails for jet ski and motorcycle trailers and associated method
A trailer rail assembly includes a base plank with a planar top surface raised above a horizontal plane and extending along an entire longitudinal length of the base member. Such a base plank has a U-shaped cross-section. The assembly further includes a cylindrical shaft with an annular cross-section spanning along an entire longitudinal length of the top surface. A support plate is statically and fixedly attached to the shaft and spanning along the entire longitudinal length of the base plank, and a mechanism for simultaneously rotating the shaft and the support plate in sync and about a fulcrum axis extends along an entire longitudinal length of the shaft while the base plank remains statically affixed at a stationary position. |
US07891629B2 |
Rotatable chair support
The disclosure relates to a rotatable support for a beach chair that has a low profile, can be lightweight, is durable and may include a bearing that is resistant to sand. The support is easy to use, store and transport. It may be easily attached and removed from a beach chair. |
US07891623B2 |
Stowable cup holder tray assembly
A stowable cup holder tray assembly is provided for a vehicle having an interior floor structure. The cup holder assembly includes a stowage compartment having a bottom portion with a plurality of opposing sidewalls extending therefrom and defining a stowage volume. The stowage compartment is mounted substantially adjacent to the interior floor structure. A cover member is hinged to one of said plurality of opposing sidewalls and operates to substantially close said stowage volume. A cup holder tray member is movable between a stowed position and a deployed position. The stowage volume is sufficiently configured to receive said cup holder tray member when in said stowed position. A vehicle incorporating the disclosed cup holder tray assembly is also provided. The cup holder tray assembly is configured to be sufficiently close to the floor when in the stowed position to provide limited barriers within the interior of the vehicle. |
US07891622B1 |
Adjustable tilt mounting system
An improved tilt mounting system for mounting flat panel televisions and similar devices or displays. In various embodiments, at least one mounting bracket includes a plurality of guide mechanisms that are adjustable in orientation relative to each other. When the guide mechanisms are adjusted, the angle between guide structures contained therein changes. As the angle between the guide structures increases, the mounting system becomes more suitable for larger devices or display. |
US07891619B2 |
Telescoping clamp assembly
A telescoping clamp assembly for a material handling system includes an inner shaft, an outer shaft, a clamping device, and a retaining element. The inner shaft has a longitudinal guide portion along an outer surface of the inner shaft. The outer shaft has a bore adapted to receive the inner shaft. The clamping device is located at the outer shaft and is configured to tighten the outer shaft about the inner shaft. The retaining element is adjustable to adjust a degree of clamping of the clamping collar at the outer shaft. The retaining element also engages the longitudinal guide portion of the inner shaft to limit extension and/or extraction of the inner shaft from the outer shaft. |
US07891618B2 |
Convertible C-clamp
A convertible clamp device including a C-shaped frame having first and second substantially opposing interconnected arms; a clamping rod carried by the first arm for longitudinal movement in a first clamping direction toward an internal face of the second arm and in a second opposite direction away from the second arm; different first and second movable clamping jaws removably coupleable to a portion of the clamping rod between the arms of the frame; and different first and second stationary clamping anvils being disposable on the internal face of the second arm. |
US07891617B2 |
Mounting bracket for slat walls
A securing assembly for enabling a structure, such as a display case, to be mounted onto a slat wall is disclosed. The securing assembly includes a first and a second bracket which are securable to each other without the use of tools or adhesives. The first bracket includes a plurality of sections, secured together, which enable the first bracket to be secured to a slat wall without the use of tools or adhesives. The second bracket includes a first portion securable to the first bracket and a second portion which can be secured to a structure with fasteners. In order to mount a structure on a slat wall the second bracket secured to the structure, the first bracket is secured to the slat wall and then the first and second brackets are secured to each other. |
US07891615B2 |
Mounting apparatus using ball and socket joints with gripping features
The present invention is directed towards ball and socket joint connectors which, when interconnected, form a flexible assembly. In some embodiments, the ball and socket joint connectors are designed and constructed such that the interference fit of the ball and socket causes creep in the material resulting in more even frictions in the various ball and socket joints. In some embodiments, the ball and socket joint connectors utilize an over-molded strip around the outside of the connector to facilitate in their use for gripping. In an exemplary embodiment utilizing the aforementioned ball and socket joint connectors, a tripod apparatus uses legs comprising the ball and socket joint connectors for support and for gripping objects. |
US07891613B2 |
Lower arm for FPM support having indented cable tray support
An inner or lower arm for a spring loaded parallelogram support arm having a trough-like depression on the lower surface. A resilient U-shaped girdle having a plurality of projections attached through slots in the bottom surface of the arm to hold and route cables running to a plasma screen supported by the device. |
US07891610B2 |
Rotary flap
The rotary flap (1) is liable to turn about a longitudinal axis of rotation (4) defined according to the first span (5) of said flap (1), said flap (1) having a profile (6) extending along the chord (CO) and comprising a first leading edge (7), a first trailing edge (8), an inner surface (9) and an outer surface (10), The inner surface (9) and outer surface (10) have non-concave shapes, first leading edge (7) having a rounded shape provided with a curve radius (R) more or less constant or elliptical in shape whose first major axis to minor axis quotient is less than or equal to 1.5, with first trailing edge (8) having a main angle (α) that is included between 10° and 30°, and axis of rotation (4) is situated at a first distance (C1) from first leading edge (7), that is included between 15% and 35% of the chord (CO) of flap (1). |
US07891608B2 |
Space frame fuselage structure and related methods
An aircraft for carrying cargo in one or more containers. The aircraft includes a fuselage structure having a plurality of nodes and a plurality of elements connecting the nodes to form a space frame in which to carry cargo. At least some of the nodes are positioned in the space frame based on dimensions of the one or more containers. The fuselage structure is more compact, lighter and less expensive compared to conventional semi-monocoque fuselages. |
US07891604B2 |
Engine mounting structure for an aircraft
An engine attachment pylon for an aircraft including an aft engine attachment fitted with an aft attachment body and a first shear pin capable of resisting forces applied along a transverse direction of the pylon. The first pin passes through a lower spar of a rigid structure of the pylon and includes a lower end housed in the aft attachment body. The lower end includes a reaming through which a first pin passes, that also passes through the aft attachment body. |
US07891601B2 |
Tape reel
The tape reel of the present invention includes: a cylindrical hub for winding recording tape; and a pair of upper and lower flanges respectively projecting circumferentially from upper and lower portions of the hub. The tape reel further comprises: a lower piece including the lower flange and a first cylinder wall formed integrally with the lower flange; and an upper piece including the upper flange and a second cylinder wall formed integrally with the upper flange. The hub is formed in a double cylinder form by a fit engagement between the first cylinder wall of the lower piece and the second cylinder wall of the upper piece. |
US07891594B1 |
Medicine crusher
A medicine crushing device for grinding medication tablets comprising a housing having a top half and a bottom half separated by an inner wall. The top half is for holding the medication tablets. A cap is removably attached to the top of the top half of the housing, a motor is disposed in the bottom half of the housing, and one or more blades operatively connected to the motor are disposed in the top half of the housing. |
US07891593B2 |
Device for comminuting a heap of particulate material
Device for comminuting a heap of particulate material, comprising a framework-supported housing with a vertical axis which is provided at its upper end with at least one inlet opening for the heap and at its lower end with an outlet; a drive shaft which is arranged vertically and centrally in the housing and is driven by a drive motor; and a rotor which is mounted on the drive shaft and has a plurality of rotor elements which are offset in the circumferential direction and/or with an axial spacing and which extend, at least while the rotor is rotating, close to the actual housing wall in order to process the downwardly falling heap, wherein the housing has at least two housing sections arranged vertically above one another, of which the lower section, at least in the upper region adjoining the section above it, has a larger diameter than the adjoining region of the upper housing section, and the radial extent of the rotor elements in the upper region of the lower housing section is larger than the diameter of the lower region of the housing section situated above it. |
US07891592B2 |
Vibratory hopper and shredder in combination
A mobile shredder has a shredder mounted in a truck box in combination with a vibratory hopper. The vibratory hopper is open on one side and opens into a fixed hopper. The fixed hopper is mounted on the shredder and is shaped to direct material to be shredded into the shredder. The vibratory hopper and the fixed hopper are located immediately adjacent to one another, but slightly apart from one another, so that vibration of the vibratory hopper does not cause vibration of the fixed hopper. |
US07891590B2 |
Method and apparatus for reusing bituminous products
Method for reusing bituminous products (11), in particular bitumen containing roofing materials and membranes, wherein the bitumen containing products are placed in a second hopper (9), where a particulate material having a grain size between 5 mm and 35 mm is placed in a first hopper (5), and that in the bottom of the second hopper, conveyor means (10) urges the bituminous material into a mixing chamber (8), and that inside said mixing chamber a milling and/or crushing wheel (14) is arranged, which wheel engages and crushes/mills the material transported from the second hopper in an engagement zone, and at the same position as the wheel engages the bituminous material, the particulate material by means of a first conveyor (7) is fed into the engagement zone, and that the wheel's action will fragment the materials and at the same time mix the fragmented bituminous materials and the particulate materials, and transport the material past a sieve (15), where material having a particle size smaller than the sieve size will leave the mixing chamber and be collected and stored in suitable storage means. |
US07891587B2 |
Intermediate plate for a fuel injector, and fuel injector
The invention relates to an intermediate plate for a fuel injector, comprising a high-pressure through-hole which connects a high-pressure passage in a valve body and is connected to a high-pressure fuel reservoir, to a high-pressure space in a nozzle body, wherein the intermediate plate is arranged between the valve body and the nozzle body. In order to improve the injection behaviour of a fuel injector provided with the intermediate plate, in particular during multiple injection of small injection quantities, the high-pressure through-hole has a cross-sectional profile which improves the flow through the high-pressure through-hole from the valve body towards the nozzle body and impairs the flow in the opposite direction from the nozzle body towards the valve body. |
US07891585B2 |
Fuel injection valve
A fuel injection valve is provided that includes an electromagnetic actuator (A1) that moves a valve body (10) in an inwardly-opening direction, and a magnetostrictive actuator (A2) that, by passing current therethrough, elongates a movable part assembly (43) extending from the valve body (10) to a movable core (24) of the electromagnetic actuator (A1), wherein the magnetostrictive actuator (A2) is formed from a solid magnetostrictive element (15) provided between the valve body (10) and the movable core (24) of the electromagnetic actuator (A1) so as to couple the valve body (10) and the movable core (24), a preload spring (13) provided between the valve body (10) and the movable core (24) so as to apply a compressive preload in the axial direction of the valve body (10) to the magnetostrictive element (15), and a second coil (42) mounted on a valve housing (H) housing the valve body (10), the movable core (24), the magnetostrictive element (15), and the preload spring (13), the second coil (42) elongating the magnetostrictive element (15) against the preload by the passage of current. By combining in this way the electromagnetic actuator and the magnetostrictive actuator equipped with the solid magnetostrictive element, a fuel injection valve of an inwardly-opening type that has good responsiveness and is capable of operating at low power consumption can be provided. |
US07891584B2 |
Fuel injection valve
The housing body (14) of the fuel injection valve comprises a recess (108), the end region of said recess having a conical tapering (110) on the bottom side thereof. The supporting body (48) engages in said conical tapering (110) with a projection (116) also comprising a conical end region (118). The closing spring (40) is supported on the needle-shaped injection valve member (34) on one side, and on the guiding sleeve (38) on the other side. The guiding sleeve (38) is supported on the supporting body (48) with the front side (461) thereof, whereby the supporting body is held against the tapering (110) in a sealing manner, under the force exerted by the closing spring (40). |
US07891581B2 |
Positioning device for a cover of a headlight cleaning system
A cover of a headlight cleaning system, which cover covers an opening in a vehicle front-end part and at the same time bears the headlight cleaning system, can be positioned precisely via latching mounts on the vehicle front-end part and latching lugs on the opposite cover. The effect achieved by this is that the cover, when retracted from an operative position into an inoperative position in a stamped formation, is arranged in a precise gap. |
US07891580B2 |
High volume atomizer for common consumer spray products
A high volume piezoelectric atomizer for use with common consumer spray products is disclosed. The piezoelectric atomizer may include an actuator, a substrate and a supply of a liquid product to be dispensed. The substrate may include a plurality of tapered perforations in direct contact with the supply of a liquid product. A control circuit vibrates the actuator, substrate and its tapered perforations against the supply at velocities of at least 500 mm/s. Droplets are dispensed at a delivery rate of approximately 0.2 g/s resulting in plumes of at least 2 feet in length resulting in a Valpey factor of at least 51.0. |
US07891579B2 |
Gaseous fuel injector using liquid fuel as lubricant and pressure-transmitting medium
A fuel injector injects high-pressure gaseous fuel directly into a cylinder of an engine. A small amount of liquid fuel is used in the injector to lubricate sliding portions of the fuel injector in addition to utilizing it as a medium for transmitting driving force. The fuel injector includes a nozzle member having injection holes at its elongated end and a needle slidably disposed in an elongated center hole of the nozzle member. The needle is driven by pressure of the liquid fuel introduced into a control chamber to open or close the injection holes. The pressure in the control chamber is controlled by a switching valve which is in turn driven by an actuator such as an electromagnetic or piezoelectric actuator. The liquid fuel is injected together with the high-pressure gaseous fuel after lubricating the sliding portions between the nozzle member and the needle. |
US07891577B2 |
Safety device for a train
A derailment prevention guard includes a guard member (3) installed within a gauge and a support member (6) fixed to a sleeper (4) or a concrete slab track. The guard member (3) engages a hold member (8) moveable around an axis (7) supported by the support member (6) as turning center between a main rail (1) and the inside of the gauge on the sleeper. The support member (6) engages the hold member (8) by bolt (12) through turning the hold member (8) toward the main rail (1) around the central axis (7) as turning center on the sleeper (4), and the guard member (3) can be shunted inward by turning the hold member (8) toward the inside of the gauge around the central axis (7) as turning center on the sleeper (4) after loosening the bolt (12). |
US07891574B1 |
Differential temperature display system
A differential temperature display system for balancing hydronic systems includes a first sensor for sensing a supply temperature and for outputting a first signal indicating the supply temperature. A second sensor is adapted for sensing a return temperature and for outputting a second signal indicating the return temperature. At least one integrated circuit is adapted for calculating a differential between the supply and return temperature. A single electronic display is adapted for displaying one of the supply temperature and the differential. A method of using the system is also disclosed. |
US07891571B2 |
Access to data stored in an embedded database
The solution concerns the access to a number of data files stored in the memory of a data processing device. The device includes a privilege file (P1-P3) associated with a user type (ADM, PUBLIC, USER1, USER2), the privilege file identifying for at least one command (SEL, INS, UPD, SUP) the data files on which the command can be executed. A microcontroller is programmed to create, when a user accesses the data files, a set of flags from the privilege file, each flag being associated with a unique data file, the flag indicating whether or not the command can be executed on the associated file. |
US07891568B2 |
Media processing device and magnetic head applicable to it
A media processing device may include a frame with a transport passage in which information recording media are transported and a magnetic head for processing magnetic information signals on the information recording media. The magnetic head may be embedded in the frame and part of the frame may be interposed between the magnetic head and the transport passage. |
US07891562B1 |
Facilitating identification of items to make available for sale to users
Techniques are described for facilitating transactions involving items and users in various ways. In some situations, item transactions are coordinated by an automated Item Transaction (or “IT”) system provided via one or more computing systems, such that users of the IT system who have available items are matched with other users of the IT system who desire those items. The types of items being involved in transactions via the IT system may vary, and in some situations may include items such as music CDs, video DVDs, computer games, computer software, etc. The operation of the IT system may be enhanced in various ways via interactions with one or more external item marketplaces, such as by automatically obtaining and using information related to users of the IT system from those marketplaces, and/or by acquiring additional items from those marketplaces for use by the IT system. |
US07891561B2 |
Cash redemption of gift cards systems and methods
A method of redeeming cash from a stored-value instrument is disclosed. The method may, at a point-of-sale (“POS”) device associated with a money transfer network, receive an identifier associated with the stored-value instrument and transmit a request to redeem cash associated with the stored-value instrument to an instrument authority system. The instrument authority system may have a database of identifiers, values associated with the identifiers and merchants associated with the identifiers. The method may further receive a response at the POS device from the instrument authority system. Based at least in part on the response, the method may determine whether to dispense cash. |
US07891559B2 |
Information processing device, information providing device, information processing method and information providing method
A function for processing electronic money is installed in a mobile phone 7 provided with a contactless IC chip. At this time, an electronic money member number is written to the contactless IC chip. The user accesses a point site on a point server 10 through a user terminal, and logs in thereto. The user enters the electronic money member number in the point site. The point server 10 transmits a combination of the electronic money member number and the user's point member number to an electronic money server 2. The electronic money server 2 receives the electronic money member number and the point member number from the point server 10, and memorizes them after establishing a linkage therebetween. |
US07891557B2 |
System and method for managing multiple smart card sessions
A system and method is provided for managing multiple smart card sessions with multiple communications or computing devices in association with a single smart card reader. A wireless smart card reader is provided for communicating with a plurality of devices requiring smart card functionality in a number of smart card sessions, in which each smart card session is addressed with an identifier identifying a single device. The smart card session is secured by a wireless connection pairing and by a secure pairing, such that each connection between the smart card reader and a device is secured against all other devices in communication with the smart card reader using a master connection key, which is unique for each device. |
US07891546B1 |
Cash dispensing automated banking machine system and method
An automated banking machine (10) is operative to carry out financial transactions and includes a user interface (15). The user interface includes a card reader (16) which is operative to read data on user cards which identify user's financial accounts. A fascia of the machine includes a keypad (404, 438, 458) through which users input confidential data. Covers (400, 422, 430) prevent unauthorized persons from viewing confidential inputs to the keypad. Alternatively, movable panels (462, 464) are movable to prevent unauthorized viewing of confidential inputs. Alternatively a keypad cover is selectively collapsible to prevent digit access. A visual indicator is operative to indicate to a user that keypad inputs are being encrypted. Disinfecting techniques may be used to disinfect manual contact surfaces of the machine. |
US07891543B2 |
Reclosable gable top carton
A reclosable carton having a tuck flap that slides between a first gable panel and side gussets is provided. The tuck flap is coupled to a second gable panel along a line that is in alignment with a non-continuous free edge. The tuck flap includes a tuck flap width that is less than widths of the first and second gable panels. The tuck flap also includes a tuck flap score that is spaced apart from the line. The side gussets forming the gable angle include two perforated score lines intersecting a top of the carton at the non-continuous free edge. The perforated scores are connected to a first intersecting score by two die cuts, which are angled substantially 45 degrees from the first intersecting score. |
US07891541B2 |
Storage container
Featured is a storage container having a rectangular base with a front wall folded upwardly along a front edge of the rectangular base, a back wall folded upwardly along a back edge of the rectangular base, a outer cover panel extension to the front wall having a pair of widths and having a cover tuck flap, wherein each edge along the pair of widths in the outer cover panel extension has cutouts in a smooth shape, an inner cover panel extension to the back wall having a pair of widths folded along a top edge of the back wall, each edge along the pair of widths of the inner cover panel extension has cutouts in a smooth shape and a pair of end walls extending upwardly along a side edge of the rectangular base with a pair of grab areas allowing fingers extending towards outer cover panel passing over cutouts having the smooth shape. |
US07891533B2 |
Surgical stapling apparatus
An endoscopic surgical apparatus is provided for placing lateral lines of surgical fasteners into body tissue. The apparatus includes a frame portion, an elongated portion extending from the frame portion, and an articulating fastener applying assembly associated with a distal end of the elongated portion. The fastener applying assembly includes a base portion, a staple cartridge housing, and an anvil member which has a forming surface thereon against which surgical fasteners are driven as they are ejected from the cartridge housing. A first mechanism is provided for effectuating the rotation of the fastener applying assembly about an axis defined by the body portion, a second mechanism is provided for effectuating the articulation of the fastener applying assembly, and a third mechanism is provided for independently rotating the cartridge housing and anvil member relative to a longitudinal axis defined by the base position to increase the range of operability of the apparatus. |
US07891530B2 |
Method for axial correction in a processing machine, as well as a processing machine
In a method for axial correction in a processing machine (100), which has at least two driven transport axles (110, 115) for transporting and processing a product web (101), at least one non-driven or driven processing axle (111, 112, 113, 114), and at least one additional non-driven axle (102, 121, 122, 123, 124), wherein the product web (101) is divisible into at least one web-tensioning segment, a web-tensioning segment is delimited by two clamping points (110-115). The clamping points are embodied in the form of driven transport or processing axles. During a rotation speed change of a clamping point (110-115) a web-tensioning segment is delimited, a pilot control of this clamping point (110-115) delimiting the web-tensioning segment and/or of a processing axle (111-114) situated in this web-tensioning segment is carried out, taking into account a moment of inertia of a non-driven axle (102, 121-124) situated in this web-tensioning section, and a corresponding processing machine (100). |
US07891527B2 |
Particulate solids injector
An apparatus for feeding a dry particulate solid into a pressurized vessel including: a solids reservoir; a rotating metering disc below the solids reservoir; a non-rotating component adjacent to the metering disc; a surface of contact between the metering disc and the non-rotating component, wherein the surface of contact comprises a low friction material; a drive shaft, a drive motor; a pickup section; and an injection tube is provided. |
US07891526B2 |
Dosing device
In a dosing device for drawing in and dispensing a free-flowing medium from a container having an inlet (60) and a discharge opening (62.1 to 62.4), the inlet (60) and the discharge opening (62) are disposed separate from each other, a dosing and displacement chamber (61) being provided between them and the inlet (60) and/or discharge opening (62.1 to 62.4) being closable. |
US07891525B2 |
Fluid product dispensing head
A fluid dispenser head having a fluid duct (73, 61) and a dispenser orifice (83) from which the user can draw the dispensed fluid. The head including a closure mechanism for selectively closing the dispenser orifice (83). The closure mechanism has a closure member (93) that is displaceable between a closed position and an open position. The head also includes a non-rotary portion (6) that is prevented from turning relative to the dispenser member (4), and a rotary portion (7, 8) that can be turned relative to the non-rotary portion (6), and a displacement mechanism (69; 69′) that displaces the closure member (93; 93′) between the closed and open positions while the rotary portion (7, 8) is being turned relative to the non-rotary portion (6). |
US07891522B2 |
Airless dispensing pump
An airless dispenser pump assembly includes a pump mechanism with an inlet valve that is configured to efficiently pump viscous fluids and that is able to be pre-primed when the pump mechanism is attached to a container. In one form, the inlet valve includes a seal member that seals an inlet port of the pump and an outer support member that secures the inlet valve to the rest of the pump mechanism. Two or more legs generally extend in a circumferential direction between the support member and the seal member in order to create a large flow opening for fluid flow through the inlet valve when opened and to rapidly close the inlet valve. The pump mechanism further includes an outlet valve that is configured to draw fluid back from a nozzle of the pump after dispensing in order to minimize build up around the nozzle. |
US07891519B2 |
Easy open can lid
An easy open can lid having: a panel portion, which is formed of an approximate disc shape, and in which a flange portion for fixing a can trunk is formed integrally on an outer circumference; a score line, which is formed near the periphery of the panel portion along the outer circumference of the panel portion; an opening piece, which is defined by the score line; and an opening tab, which is fixed near the periphery of the opening piece. This easy open can lid of the invention is characterized in that the score line is formed of an arcuate along periphery of the panel portion and both ends thereof are separated, and comprises a connecting portion connecting the opening piece with the panel portion, which is formed between the both ends of the score line, and a strength incrementing portion, in which a rupture strength thereof increases gradually toward the end portion of the score line. |
US07891515B2 |
Water soluble container with rigid spacer
A water-soluble container comprising a first compartment containing a first composition, a second compartment containing a second composition and a rigid spacer located in the first compartment and/or the second compartment, such that a wall or wall section of the first and/or second compartment is prevented from contacting a wall or wall section of the other compartment. |
US07891514B1 |
Easy open air-tight sealed food container
A food and liquid container is disclosed having a base and lid and providing for an air-tight seal between the base and lid when they are attached to each other. The seal is achieved at several points which create two air-pockets. The securing portion associated with the base can be substantially J-shaped in cross section, while the securing portion of the lid can be substantially u-shaped in cross section. A first ridge on the J-shaped section abuts with a second ridge on the u-shaped section when the lid is attached to the base with the second ridge disposed above the first ridge. The lower outer end of the u-shaped section can be rounded and a lip can extend outward for easier gripping when removing the lid from the base. |
US07891513B2 |
Container base with feet
A one-piece plastic container includes a body defining a longitudinal axis and having an upper portion, a sidewall portion and a base portion. The base portion defines a plurality of feet extending therearound. The base portion defines a contact diameter ratio of approximately 70-74% and a contact length ratio of approximately 20-23% for a plastic container having a volume capacity of approximately one (1) liter (1000 cc). According to additional features, the one-piece plastic container can have a nub defined on the base portion. For a one-piece plastic container having a volume capacity of approximately one (1) liter (1000 cc), the nub has a diameter of approximately 3-7 mm (0.12-0.28 inch), the base portion defines a contact area ratio of approximately 23-25%, and each foot defines corner transition portions each having a fillet radius of approximately 4-10 mm (0.16-0.39 inch). |
US07891509B2 |
Closure and container package having child-resistant and non-child-resistant modes of operation
A package having child-resistant and non-child-resistant modes of operation includes a plastic container having a cylindrical finish and at least one external thread on the finish spaced from the open end of the finish. An external circumferentially extending first engagement element is provided on the finish between the external thread and the open end of the finish, and has an outside diameter that is less than that of the external thread. A manually deflectable release element is externally cantilevered from the finish on a side of the thread remote from the open end. A plastic closure has a base wall and a peripheral skirt with at least one internal thread for engagement with the at least one external thread on the finish in a child-resistant mode of operation. There is at least one locking lug on the skirt for releasable engagement with the release element on the container in the child-resistant mode of operation. An annular wall extends from the base wall in a direction opposite from the skirt. A second engagement element is disposed on the inner surface of the annular wall for engagement with the first engagement element on the container finish in an inverted non-child-resistant mode of operation of the closure. In disclosed embodiments of the invention, the engagement elements may comprise circumferential beads or circumferential threads on the container finish and the annular wall of the closure. |
US07891508B2 |
Crane radial support bearing
The present invention, in one embodiment, is a system for receiving and delivering into a base the radial loads imposed on a crane where the crane has a center post operably connected to the base with a generally cylindrical outer bearing surface and the crane rotates in at least a partial circle around the axis of the center post. The system comprises three or more radial load rollers arranged in a linked sequence in an arc at the outer bearing surface of the center post. Each radial load roller includes an axle and an axis of rotation that is generally parallel to the axis of the center post. The system also comprises a means for anchoring a first radial load roller at one end of the arc and anchoring a second radial load roller at the other end of the arc. The system also comprises links connecting each roller between the first and the second radial rollers to its adjacent rollers to form a flexible chain of said rollers. Finally, the system comprises a means for tensioning the linked radial load rollers to draw each radial load roller into rolling contact with the outer bearing surface and to equalize substantially the radial forces exerted by the radial rollers on the outer bearing surface. |
US07891505B2 |
Display for a casket selection room
A display for a casket selection room comprises a base, a first display portion mounted to the base, a plurality of casket portions representing a plurality of casket choices from which a customer may select mounted to the first display portion, a second display portion mounted to the first display portion, and a plurality of casket ornaments representing a plurality of ornament choices from which the customer may select mounted to the second display portion. |
US07891503B2 |
Product management display system
An integrated “T” assembly combines into a single integrated assembly, a track portion along both sides of a divider. The T assembly may have a wide-base portion, which may include a spring-urged-pusher track, on one side of the divider and a narrow-base portion on the opposite side of the divider. An offset pusher may have an upper portion that is offset, via an angled offset portion, from a lower portion of the pusher. Additional supporting bases, any of which may include spring-urged-pusher tracks and/or a spring-urged pusher, may be used under a wide product. Left and right side finisher components may be paired with T assemblies near the sides of a merchandise-display shelf. The T assembly, base, and/or end finishers may be coupled to a front rail via a complimentary tongue and groove arrangement and/or a non-slidable engagement. |
US07891502B2 |
Circuit board carrier
A circuit board carrier has main frame, at least one first holder, at least one slide and at least one second holder. The first and second holders are mounted on and selectively slide on the main frame. The slide is mounted on and selectively slides on the corresponding first holder. The slide has a first pin and the second holder has a second pin. The circuit board is held on the circuit board carrier by the pins. Therefore, the circuit board is kept from being contacted to the delivering wheels during manufacturing and is not polluted and trapped by the delivering wheels. |
US07891501B2 |
Shelf unit for use in rack for communication equipment
A shelf unit for use in a rack for communication equipment comprising: a front body including a pair of side panels for containing PCBs; a back board detachably mounted to the rear ends of the side panels of the front body; and a rear body including a pair of side panels for containing PCBs. Connecting members are mounted adjacent to the rear ends of the side panels of the front body and protrude outward therefrom. A pair of connecting plates extends forward from the front ends of the respective side panels of the rear body. L-shaped slots are provided at the connecting plates, into which the respective connecting members are fitted. |
US07891493B2 |
Food carrier
A method for carrying a plurality of food containers that includes an insulated housing having a closed bottom, a closed top located substantially vertically above the bottom, and at least one side wall having a first opening proximate the top of the housing and a second opening proximate the bottom of the housing, the first opening being sized to receive at least one meal container therethrough, the second opening being sized to allow removal of at least one meal container from within the housing as received within the housing from the first opening and to preclude simultaneous removal of all of the meal containers from within the housing, thereby limiting heat transfer from within the housing. |
US07891490B2 |
Sequentially placed shipping and packing label system
A system for providing a shipping label and a packing list on a container is provided which enables rapid and automated sequential application of a packing list and a shipping label to the container. The shipping label is configured complemental to the packing list whereby the packing list may first be adhered directly to the container and then the shipping label may be placed thereover. The shipping label may be applied over the packing list while the container moves continuously down a conveyor. The invention further includes an apparatus for sequentially applying the packing list and then the shipping label, and a method for applying the packing list and shipping label in registry. |
US07891489B2 |
Patient check system
A system for assisting in communication of the state of a patient's condition is disclosed. In an embodiment, a plastic container of washcloths includes two labels. The first label is mounted on the container and occludes an entry into the container. The second label also is mounted on the container via attachment to the first label. The second label includes a template that is mounted face down. In operation, the second label may be removed and observations regarding the patient's skin condition that are made during use of the washcloth can be marked on the template provided on the second label. The second label then may be communicated from one care provider to another care provider. |
US07891488B2 |
Interactive product selection system
The present invention involves an interactive selection system for a consumer product that improves the consumer's ability to quickly sort through numerous criteria in a complex decision making process and determine whether that particular consumer product is appropriate for his or her purchase and use. The interactive selection system is designed for a consumer product wherein the product is appropriate for less than all consumers comprising: (a) an interface; (b) at least one product selection device associated with the interface, wherein each product selection device is comprised of: (i) decision criteria that are relevant to appropriate selection or deselection of the product, (ii) at least two selectable responses associated with each decision criteria, wherein there is at least one positive selectable response and at least one negative selectable response for each decision criteria, and (iii) selection indicia associated with each selectable response; (c) directive instructions which direct an operator to manipulate each product selection device to choose a consumer applicable response from the available selectable responses per decision criteria; and (d) interpretive instructions which explain how to interpret the pattern of selection indicia which is observably associated with the chosen one or more consumer applicable responses to assist with determining whether or not the product is appropriate for the consumer's purchase or use. |
US07891481B2 |
Conveyor belt for mounting oblique rollers on lateral rods
A conveyor belt and a method for providing a conveyor belt with rollers that rotate on axes oblique to the direction of belt travel. Axles are mounted on rods extending perpendicular to direction of belt travel. The axles have cylindrical outer bearing surfaces that define a central axis that is oblique to the direction of belt travel when mounted on the rods. Rollers mounted on the axles rotate on the outer bearing surfaces in a direction oblique to the direction of belt travel. |
US07891480B2 |
Rail element for conveying suspended objects, preform-supply device comprising one such element and curved flat band which can be fixed to one such element
A rail element conveys suspended objects, such as bottles or preforms. The rail element includes two guide rails which are separated by a pre-defined distance and which form lateral support surfaces for the objects being conveyed along a conveyor passageway, such as preform sub-neck guides. A helically-curved conveyor section consists of a frame on which the guide rails are helically arranged. At least one guide rail includes a flat band that can be removed from the frame. |
US07891475B2 |
Isolator decoupler
An isolator decoupler comprising a first tapered portion for connecting to a driving shaft, a second tapered portion cooperatively engaging the first tapered portion, the second tapered portion having a frictional engagement with a pulley, and an elastomeric member operatingly disposed between the second tapered portion and the pulley. |
US07891474B2 |
Magneto-rheological brake-clutch apparatuses and methods
Magneto-rheological brake-clutch apparatuses and methods are provided. According to one aspect, a magneto-rheological brake-clutch can include a drive member and a driven member spaced from the drive member with a gap defined between the drive and driven members. A first quantity of MR fluid can be disposed in the gap. A brake assembly can define a chamber having a second quantity of MR fluid disposed therein and having a braking structure positioned in the chamber and connected to the driven member. A magnetic field generation assembly can be configured to selectively apply a magnetic field to the first quantity of MR fluid for controlling engagement of the driven member with the drive member. The assembly can be configured to selectively apply a magnetic field to the second quantity of MR fluid for controlling engagement of the braking structure with the brake assembly to brake the driven member. A magnet can be used and selectively positioned for applying a magnetic field to the first and second quantities of MR fluid. |
US07891473B2 |
Torque converter with forced oil circulation
A three-channel torque converter in which an additional wall is mounted, thereby creating a third space which hydraulically connects the end of the plates that faces away from the turbine to a third channel. This third space ensures that an exchange flow of oil in a region of the hydrodynamic components (impeller, turbine, stator), of an optional damper, and of the lockup clutch is always restricted to flow across the plates of the lockup clutch. This provides high-performance cooling of the plates in the slip mode. |
US07891471B2 |
Brake system stabilizer assembly
The present invention adds a stabilizing force member to prior art Railway brake systems and greatly improves the control of the spatial orientation of a modified brake beam within a Railway vehicle and provides lateral support to a truck lever connection and levers, which in turn, properly locate actuating bars of the brake system. As a result, service life of brake beam support components and brake shoes are extended, brake lever friction is reduced and brake system efficiency is increased. |
US07891468B2 |
Motor-driven parking brake apparatus
A motor-driven parking brake apparatus includes a load sensor (pressure sensor) for detecting axial load of a screw shaft. The pressure sensor includes a transmission member which receives the axial load via a circular surface of a plate, and a casing which accommodates the transmission member and receives the axial load via the transmission member. This casing has a circular opening having an opening area smaller than the surface of the circular surface. The pressure sensor detects a pressure generated due to a load received from an exposed portion of the transmission member which is exposed from the circular opening. Due to characteristics of the transmission member, the load received from the exposed portion is a portion of the axial load and proportional to the axial load. |
US07891467B2 |
Elevator safety arrangement having safety spaces
An elevator safety arrangement and a method for implementing safety spaces in an elevator has a mechanical safety device which can be set to a working position to ensure a sufficient safety space in the elevator shaft and an electric safety system for identifying the operating state of the mechanical safety device. According to the method of the invention, detectors in the electric safety system are read by an electric safety controller and, when a functional deviation is detected, one or more stopping devices are actuated to bring the elevator system into a safe operating state. |
US07891466B2 |
Elevator apparatus for emergency braking
In an elevator apparatus, a brake device stops a car from running. The brake device has a brake control portion for controlling a braking force generated at a time of emergency braking to adjust a deceleration of the car, and a timer circuit for invalidating the control of the braking force performed by the brake control portion after a lapse of a predetermined time from a moment when an emergency braking command is generated. |
US07891460B2 |
Gear box-typed active front steering system in vehicle
According to an active front steering system (AFS) of the invention, an actuator assembly that receives steering input from a driver and AFS input from a motor is mounted to a gear box that reciprocates a rack bar connected to tie rods that are connected to wheels. Therefore, the entire size of the AFS is reduced and a decelerator that changes the steering ratio includes a single planetary gear that outputs final steering through rack bar after the steering input from the driver and the AFS input from motor are inputted across each other. |
US07891458B2 |
Steering system for engineering vehicle
A priority valve 7 is disposed between a hydraulic pump 2 and a steering valve 4 and is used to supply priority steering cylinders 103a and 103b with pressurized oil discharged from the hydraulic pump 2 by controlling the differential pressure across a meter-in hydraulic line of the steering valve 4 such that the differential pressure is kept at a target value. A pressure sensor 31 for detecting the load pressures of the steering cylinders 103a and 103b is provided. On the basis of the detected load pressures, the target value set for the priority valve 7 is modified by devices including a controller 32, a solenoid valve 33, a pilot hydraulic line 29, and a pressure receiving unit 24c of the priority valve 7. The above configuration enables suppression of a shock occurring at the start of turning of the steering wheel. |
US07891456B2 |
Anti-drunk driving apparatus for vehicle
An anti-drunk driving apparatus for a vehicle including: an alcohol drinking determination device which determines whether or not a first person seated in a driver's seat is drunk; a driving restriction device which restricts driving of the vehicle in a case where it is determined that the first person seated in the driver's seat is drunk by the alcohol drinking determination device; a driving intention presumption device which presumes whether or not a second person seated in the driver's seat has an intention to drive; a photograph device which photographs the faces of the first and second persons; and a person identification device which determines whether or not the first and second persons are the same by comparing their faces in images, wherein if it is determined that the first and the second persons are not the same, the driving restriction device restricts driving of the vehicle. |
US07891455B2 |
Snowmobile conversion kit
A conversion kit for converting a snowmobile into a wheeled road vehicle, includes first and second front wheel assemblies. First and second spindle plates have a mount bracket, a strut bracket, a torsion bar bracket, and first and second kingpin assemblies. The kingpin assemblies on the first and second spindle plates connect with the first and second front wheel assemblies. A trailing arm is integrally connected with the spindle plate and extends rearwardly therefrom. A rear wheel assembly is rotatably connected with the snowmobile and has a rear wheel sprocket fixedly connected thereto. A drive shaft is connected to a power source on the snowmobile and a drive belt connects the drive shaft to the rear wheel sprocket. |
US07891453B2 |
Energy storage in an elastic vessel
In one aspect of the present invention, an energy storage system has an elastic hydraulic fluid vessel with an internal variable volume and being coupled to a hydraulic rotary mechanism. The elastic hydraulic fluid vessel has an elastic material adapted to store a potential energy within its fibers when the internal volume is increased by a hydraulic fluid. The hydraulic rotary mechanism is adapted to be accelerated by the release of the potential energy of the fibers of the elastic vessel by ejecting the hydraulic fluid from the internal variable volume into the rotary mechanism. |
US07891451B2 |
Power controller and vehicle equipped with power controller
An ECU detects an effective value and phase of a voltage from a commercial power supply, based on a voltage from a voltage sensor. Further, ECU generates a command current, which is a command value of current caused to flow through power lines and in-phase with the voltage of the commercial power supply, based on the detected effective value and the phase and on a charge/discharge power command value for a power storage device. Then, ECU controls zero-phase voltage of inverters based on the generated command current. |
US07891449B2 |
Hybrid drive apparatus
A hybrid drive apparatus includes a drive apparatus input shaft that is connected to an engine; a rotary electric machine; a transmission that is capable of changing a speed of rotation from a transmission input shaft and outputting a resulting rotation to a transmission output shaft, an output mechanism that connects the transmission output shaft and drive wheels; a drive transfer mechanism that links a rotor of the rotary electric machine and the transmission input shaft; and a clutch that enables interrupting and connecting of drive power between the drive apparatus input shaft and the transmission input shaft, wherein the drive transfer mechanism includes a speed reduction mechanism that reduces a rotation speed from the rotary electric machine and transmits a resulting rotation to the transmission input shaft. |
US07891443B2 |
Hardfacing around ball loading hole for earth-boring bit
A rotary cone earth boring bit has at least one bit leg with a cone retaining ball passage that intersects an outer surface of the bit leg and is closed by a ball plug. An upwardly curved lower hardfacing bead is on the outer surface of the bit leg at least partially below the ball plug. A downwardly curved upper hardfacing bead is on the outer surface of the bit leg at least partially above the ball plug. The upper hardfacing bead has leading and trailing ends that join the lower hardfacing bead. The upper and lower hardfacing beads define a generally elliptical perimeter surround the ball plug. At least one transverse bead is above the upper hardfacing bead and leads generally upwardly and circumferentially from a leading edge of the bit leg to a trailing edge of the bit leg. |
US07891441B2 |
Expandable downhole tool
An expandable downhole tool such as an under-reamer or a stabiliser includes a mandrel mounted for linear slidable movement relative to a main body. The mandrel, together with one or more travel blocks, cause movement of a working component in an axial direction. One or more outwardly extending guide paths slidably interact with the working component to cause the working component to move between a withdrawn inoperative position and an outwardly deployed operative position. Upon increase of hydraulic pressure from below the tool, the mandrel is urged against a spring biasing the deactivated position to move axially and cause the working component to take its operative position. Upon decrease of hydraulic pressure, the spring moves the mandrel axially to cause the working component to take its withdrawn inoperative position. |
US07891440B2 |
Method and system for installing geothermal transfer apparatuses with a sonic drill and a removable or retrievable drill bit
There is provided a method for drilling a cased hole and installing a geothermal transfer apparatus. A sonic drilling apparatus is positioned at a desired location. The sonic drilling apparatus includes a rotating and vibrating apparatus for rotating and vibrating a drill string into the ground. A retrievable drill bit is operatively connected to the drill string. The cased hole is drilled to a desired depth by rotating and vibrating the drill string into the ground. The retrievable drill bit is retrieved from the cased hole following the drilling of the cased hole to the desired depth. A geothermal transfer apparatus is lowered into the cased hole following the retrieval of the retrievable drill bit. Grouting material may be discharged into the cased hole before or after the drill string is removed from the ground. |
US07891436B2 |
Furrow opener with replaceable elongate tip body
A furrow opener comprises an opener body including a shank mount arranged to support the opener body on an agricultural implement shank for movement in a forward working direction and a tip body readily separable from the opener body and arranged for forming a furrow in the ground in the working direction. The tip body includes a furrowing portion extending downwardly and forwardly beyond the opener body so as to be arranged to form the furrow in the ground. A retainer member is supported on the opener body to retain a portion of the tip body adjacent the top end thereof on the opener body to provide support to the tip body against a moment acting on the tip body from the rearward force on the furrowing portion during furrow formation. |
US07891432B2 |
Apparatus and methods for setting one or more packers in a well bore
Apparatus and methods for setting one or more packers in a well bore. A check valve is provided that controls flow of fluids into and out of an inflow control device on a base pipe in a production string. With the check valve in the closed position, a setting ball is passed through the inside of the base pipe and sealing seats in a seat sub, thereby preventing fluid from flowing out of the end of the base pipe. Increasing the pressure inside the base pipe causes the packers to set. Decreasing the pressure inside the base pipe creates a differential between the pressure inside the base pipe and the pressure of the surrounding reservoir that is sufficient to overcome the bias on the check valve and move the check valve into the open position, thereby allowing reservoir fluid to flow into the base pipe for production. |
US07891429B2 |
Riserless modular subsea well intervention, method and apparatus
A subsea well intervention system that permits dynamic disconnection from subsea well intervention equipment without removing any of the equipment during a drive-off condition is provided. The system includes a blowout preventer module operatively connected to a subsea tree and a subsea control system. The subsea control system is connected via electrical jumper to an ROV's tether management system. The subsea control system is connected via hydraulic jumpers to a multipurpose fluid-injection skid and one or more hydraulic accumulation banks. A fail-safe disconnect assembly is utilized with respect to the electrical jumper in order to provide easy removal during a drive-off condition. |
US07891425B2 |
Methods of limiting or preventing fluid flow through a portion of a subterranean formation
A method of limiting or preventing fluid flow through a portion of a subterranean formation comprises the steps of: (a) forming a treatment fluid comprising: (i) a water-swellable, water-insoluble elastomer in the form of discrete particles, wherein the particles of the water-swellable, water-insoluble elastomer have a characteristic of being capable of sticking together to form an agglomeration when exposed to water; and (ii) a carrier fluid for the water-swellable, water-insoluble elastomer; and (b) injecting the treatment fluid through a well into the subterranean formation to deposit the discrete particles of the water-swellable, water-insoluble elastomer in the subterranean formation. |
US07891420B2 |
Wellbore apparatus and method for completion, production and injection
A method and apparatus associated with the production of hydrocarbons is disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a tubular member having a central opening within an internal portion of the tubular member, wherein the central opening allows hydrocarbons to flow through the tubular member. Also, the tubular member includes openings between the central opening and a region external to the tubular member. In addition to the tubular member, at least two adjacent wire segments are disposed around the tubular member. The at least two adjacent wire segments create at least two flow paths to the central opening. Also, the at least two adjacent wire segments form at least two openings configured to prevent particles greater than a specific size from entering the openings in the tubular member. |
US07891419B2 |
Downhole well cleaning tool
A downhole well cleaning tool adapted for connection between upper and lower sections of an elongate string includes a pump barrel having at least one fluid outlet proximate its upper end. A swab assembly is connected to a pump mandrel for reciprocation within the pump barrel to pump fluids upward to the outlet to draw fluid and debris into the lower string section and trap the debris. A lower portion of the swab mandrel is hollow and open at a lower end thereof with at least one conduit extending through a side wall of the swab mandrel to direct fluid laterally outward from the hollow lower portion against the side wall of the pump barrel during lowering into fluid to reduce debris build-up within the pump barrel. A wear bushing is mounted between the pump mandrel and barrel and a knuckle or swivel joint connects the swab and pump mandrels. |
US07891414B2 |
Method for manufacturing heat dissipator having heat pipes and product of the same
A heat dissipator having heat pipes includes a heat-conducting base, a first heat pipe and a second heat pipe. The heat-conducting base has an accommodating trough. After the first heat pipe is accommodated in the accommodating trough, it is deformed so as to abut against the inner wall face of the accommodating trough. Further, the second heat pipe and the first heat pipe are provided in the same accommodating trough, and the second heat pipe is overlapped vertically on the first heat pipe. As a result, the second heat pipe is deformed so as to abut against the first heat pipe and the interior of the accommodating trough, thereby enhancing the heat-conducting performance of the heat dissipator. |
US07891407B2 |
Method and apparatus for localized control of heat flux in thin cast strip
A method of and apparatus for continuous casting of thin cast strip including removing oxides from the casting surface of each casting roll by contacting the casting surface of each casting roll with a rotating brush between the nip and the casting area, determining the temperature in segments along the casting roll surfaces or across the cast strip adjacent the nip, and delivering gas adjacent the casting surface between the rotating cleaning brush and the casting area regulated in segments corresponding to the determined temperature in the segment to control the quality of the strip produced. The gas delivery adjacent the casting surface between the rotating brush and the casting area may be done in at least five segments along the casting roll, and the temperature determination step may be done in a continuum such as by a scanning pyrometer. The temperature determination of the cast strip may be done between 0.2 and 1 meter from the nip. |
US07891405B2 |
Water-cooling mold for metal continuous casting
A water-cooled mold for continuous casting includes two water-cooled wide copper plates arranged opposite to each other in a front and back direction and two water-cooled narrow copper plates arranged opposite to each other in a left and right direction. The upper portion of the cavity of the mold is a sprue area and the lower portion of the cavity is a mold cavity area. The sprue area is gradually narrowed in the casting direction and smoothly transited into the mold cavity, corresponding to the shape of a slab to be cast. The inside surfaces of the water-cooled narrow copper plates are smooth planar surfaces. A portion of the inside surface of the water-cooled wide copper plates in the sprue area is a curved surface and another portion in the mold cavity area is a planar surface. The curved surface and the planar surface portions form a continuous smooth surface. |
US07891404B2 |
Machine for producing flaskless molds
The present invention relates to a moulding machine (1) for producing flaskless moulds. The moulding machine (1) comprises a drag flask (3) and a cope flask (2), a drag squeeze plate (6) associated with said drag flask (3), and a cope squeeze plate (5) inserted in said cope flask (2), all arranged to be rotated between a horizontal and a vertical position and the drag flask (3) and cope flask (2) being arranged to be movable relative towards one another and away from one another. The drag flask (3), the cope flask (2), the drag squeeze plate (6), and the cope squeeze plate (5) are guided in their relative movement by a common set of guide rods (7), whereby the alignment procedure for these components is significantly facilitated. |
US07891401B2 |
Systems for bracing garage doors against hurricane force winds
Equipment and techniques for bracing roll down doors of a building having a plurality of horizontal door panels against severe winds and security against burglary use a horizontal cross bar mounted to the building at connector locations on either side of the door panels. At least one vertical support bar connects to the horizontal cross bar at locations intermediate to the ends of the horizontal cross bar and is secured to the floor using a floor mount. The vertical support bar is connected to door panels using a rotatable hook. The equipment can be provided in a kit form for easy installation. |
US07891400B2 |
Overhead doors and associated track and guide assemblies for use with same
Overhead door assemblies having both interlocking and releasable guide assemblies, and guide track assemblies for use with same are disclosed herein. An overhead door track configured in accordance with an embodiment of the invention includes a first side portion spaced apart from a second side portion to define a channel or gap region therebetween. The first side portion has a first guide surface and a first retention surface. Similarly, the second side portion has a second guide surface and a second retention surface. In this embodiment, the first and second guide surfaces diverge outwardly from the gap region in a first direction, and the first and second retention surfaces diverge inwardly from the gap region in a second direction, opposite the first direction. An overhead door configured in accordance with another embodiment of the invention can include a first guide member configured to extend through the gap region and movably engage the first and second retention surfaces, and a second guide member configured to be removably engaged with the first and second guide surfaces. |
US07891399B2 |
Device for fine adjustment of roller blinds
Two neighboring roller blinds on the same drive shaft may be adjusted with respect to each other by letting one end plug comprise an un-coupling device. This un-coupling device may advantageously be made by means of an unwrap spring that is actuated by means of a ring that surrounds one end plug. |
US07891398B2 |
Screen device
A screen device includes an expandable and contractible folding screen connected to a side frame member and to a movable stile to be opened and closed, and a translation mechanism for the movable stile. The translation mechanism includes a single wire having three or more segments arranged in rows extending through the screen. The wire segments are redirected at an inlet to the movable stile, are guided along the length of the movable stile, are redirected in upper and lower areas of the movable stile, and are guided along the lateral frame members toward the opposite frame member, thereby the wire stretches between the movable stile and the opposite frame member the same number of times as the number of wire segments extending through the screen to absorb changes in the length of the wire segments extending through the screen in accordance with movement of the movable stile. |
US07891397B2 |
Labeling machine, a vacuum drum for use in a labeling machine, and a method of using a labeling machine having a vacuum drum
A labeling machine, a vacuum drum for use in a labeling machine, and a method of using a labeling machine having a vacuum drum. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner. |
US07891391B2 |
Tire with tread having an outer cap layer and underlying transition layer containing at least one of depolymerized rubber, pre-cured rubber and coal dust
The invention relates to a tire having a lug and groove configured rubber tread having an outer rubber cap layer with a running surface and an underlying specialized transition rubber layer. The transition rubber layer is specialized in a sense of containing at least one of partially depolymerized rubber, particulate pre-cured rubber and coal dust. The outer tread cap layer is comprised of ground-contacting tread lugs with the tread running surface and associated tread grooves positioned between said tread lugs. The tread grooves may extend radially inward through the outer tread cap layer and, optionally, into the transition tread layer. The rubber tread configuration may also optionally also include a tread base rubber layer underlying the transition rubber layer. |
US07891390B1 |
Tree pusher
A tree pusher for safely felling a tree. The tree pusher includes (a) a base; (b) a frame mounted on the base; (c) a mechanism for pushing the frame against the tree to fell the tree; and (d) a mechanism for connecting the base of the tree pusher to the tree, so that the base will not move while the tree is being pushed over to fell the tree. The frame includes a detachable pronged head which engages the trunk of the tree, and which disengages itself from the frame of the tree pusher and remains with the trunk of the tree as the tree falls. The frame includes a series of tubes connected end-to-end by locking pins, making it very easy to assemble and disassemble the tree pusher. If a tree has accidentally fallen against a house, a building, or an electrical power line, two tree pushers are positioned on opposite sides of the fallen tree and used to lift the fallen tree. |
US07891387B2 |
Mobile robot system having liquid supply station and liquid supply method
A robot system includes a supply station. The system further includes: a robot, a robot tank adapted to store a liquid and disposed at the robot; and a supply station configured to supply additional liquid to the tank. |
US07891386B2 |
Thermal management for high pressure storage tanks
Apparatus for the thermal management of high pressure gas storage tanks wherein the compression heat of refueling the tank is evacuated from the interior of the tank in which a gas circulates within the tank powered by a pump powered and as the gas traverses from the high pressure refuel depot to the storage tank, the circulating gas absorbs the refueling heat and carries the heat to a cooling system having a supplemental heat exchange device before the gas is introduced into the tank. The apparatus may be operated in reverse to transfer heat from a source to the tank interior to provide more complete exhaustion of the tank during vehicle operation. |
US07891385B2 |
Sealing pump-up device
To reliably supply a predetermined amount of sealing agent into a pneumatic tire even if the device is inclined and after the predetermined amount of sealing agent is supplied, to automatically start feeding compressed air into the pneumatic tire. In pumping device 30, when compressed air is supplied to air chamber 54, internal pressure of air chamber 54 increases, and as the internal pressure of air chamber 54 rises, a contained volume of air chamber 54 increases while a contained volume of liquid container 52 decreases. Thus, sealing agent 100 in an amount corresponding to the amount corresponding to the reduction in the contained volume of liquid container 52, is forcibly discharged from discharge outlet 64 and the discharged sealing agent 100 is injected into tire 90. In pumping device 30, when the air chamber 54 expands enough to have a predetermined amount of sealing agent to be discharged from the liquid container 52, the air discharge opening 92 opens toward the air chamber 54 to allow the air chamber 54 to communicate with the inside of tire 90. Thus, compressed air in the air chamber 54 can be supplied into tire 90 via the air discharge outlet 92, bypass hose 96 and joint hose 68. |
US07891384B2 |
Flexible tubular pipe for transporting gaseous hydrocarbons
The invention relates to a flexible tubular duct for transporting gases under high pressure in the field of offshore oil exploitation. The duct is of the unlinked and smooth passageway type, and comprises from inside to outside an inner polymer tube, a pressure vault formed by the short-pitch rolling of at least one wire, a first inner pair of crossed traction armor plies, an intermediate polymer sleeve, a second outer pair of crossed traction armor plies and an outer polymer sleeve. The inner pair of traction armor plies is wound with a helical angle of less than 35° and the outer pair of traction armor plies is wound with a helical angle substantially equal to 55°. |
US07891382B2 |
Overmolded and bendable position-retaining tubing
A hollow conduit, being primarily round, or having n sides wherein n is greater than or equal to three, and process for making the conduit is described herein. The hollow conduit is comprised of a polymer inner conduit having a pair of opposed ends and an interior and exterior surface. An overmolded corrugated polymer is bonded between at least a portion of the ends and at least a portion of the exterior surface of the inner conduit. The overmolded polymer has at least one flexible position retaining means at least partially embedded within. The flexible position retaining means within the overmolded polymer may be a metallic wire. The inner conduit may be a thermoset, and the overmolded corrugated plastic may be a thermoplastic. |
US07891380B2 |
Protective cap for quick connector
A fluid coupling assembly is disclosed comprising a connector body defining a bore extending axially forward from an entrance opening, a tubular male member with an upset, a seal member, and a retainer. The retainer is received within the bore and includes locking members to releaseably retain the tube. The retainer includes a forward extension to support the seal against fluid pressure. The retainer and seal are configured to be applied to the male member before insertion of the male member into the bore of the connector body. Two of the locking members include ramps extending radially outwardly to contact the body portion defining the entrance opening sequentially prior to contact by the locking arms of the other locking members. A removable protective cap attaches the retainer and seal onto a tube end and covers these components prior to assembly. The retainer, seal member and protective cap cannot be assembled onto the tube end unless the seal is present within the protective cap. |
US07891378B2 |
Fluid distribution assembly and method of use thereof
A fluid distribution assembly includes modules for channelling fluid and for mounting components a body having at least one support face for supporting the modules, the support face having a regular network of elements for fixing the modules. A passage for fluid is provided inside the body. The assembly finds application in the analysis of fluids circulating in industrial installations. |
US07891377B2 |
Reverse flow wye connector
A subsea fitting is disclosed. The subsea fitting includes a body. The fitting includes at least two passages through the body. The passages are in fluid communication within the body. A diverter is located in at least one of the passages. The diverter may be movable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the diverter allows open flow between two of the passages. In the closed position, the diverter inhibits flow between the two passages. |
US07891375B2 |
Softstart valve means
A softstart valve means comprises a main valve member which is only switched over after a certain time from a closed position into an open position. The opening force required for switch over of the main valve member can be produced selectively in a manner dependent from pressure obtaining in a secondary duct or in a time dependent fashion. The respective operational mode can be selected by actuation of switch over means. |
US07891370B1 |
Irrigation device with freeze member
An irrigation device includes a chamber having a peripheral wall made of a material susceptible to damage from the expansion of water in an interior of the chamber during freezing. A freeze member is located in the chamber and is made of a compressible material. The freeze member is configured to allow unfrozen water to pass through the chamber and to accommodate expansion of the water during freezing to prevent cracking or other damage to the peripheral wall. |
US07891363B2 |
Methods for treating eye conditions
Architectures and techniques for treating conditions of the eye, such as presbyopia, utilize sources of treatment energy, such as electromagnetic energy emitting devices, to implement non-corneal manipulations. According to these devices and methods, the sources of treatment energy are activated to direct energy onto parts of the eye, such as the conjunctiva and sclera, to treat presbyopia. The treatments can affect at least one property of the eye and enhance an accommodation of the eye. |
US07891360B2 |
Earplug and manufacturing method
An earplug that includes a piezoelectric element that converts electrical signals into oscillations; and a deformable material of which at least one segment is insertable into an external auditory canal of a person to ensure an acoustic seal by deformation, the piezoelectric element being disposed inside the deformable material and in fixed contact therewith, the deformable material being able to transmit the oscillations at a periphery and ensure conduction of the oscillations through cartilage and soft tissue of the auditory canal. |
US07891355B2 |
Physiological monitor
A patient monitor has multiple sensors adapted to attach to tissue sites of a living subject. The sensors generate sensor signals that are responsive to at least two wavelengths of optical radiation after attenuation by pulsatile blood within the tissue sites. A patient monitor uses the sensor signals to determine changes in constant oxygen consumption as an indication of changes in metabolism at the tissue cite. |
US07891352B2 |
Aerosol generating means for inhalation therapy devices
The invention describes an aerosol generator for inhalation therapy devices, in which an oscillatable assembly, consisting of at least a membrane and an oscillation generator, is mounted in an encapsulating means such that at least the membrane is exposed for the supply of liquid and the generation of an aerosol, whereas the remaining parts of the oscillatable assembly are protected. Mounting occurs by means of a flexible passage such that the oscillatory motions of the oscillatable assembly are not negatively affected. |
US07891348B2 |
Compact crossbow with improved efficiency
A “cross-over” compound crossbow includes a stock and barrel assembly attached to a horizontally mounted compound bow. The compound bow component is similar to that of U.S. Pat. No. 7,047,958 and includes an alternative arrow support system to achieve higher arrow velocity at a reduced draw weight. The crossover compound bow also provides draw weight adjustability and positive cam synchronization. |
US07891347B2 |
Method and device for operating an internal combustion engine
The invention relates to the operation of an internal combustion engine, a first model value or a second model value of the exhaust gas counter pressure is determined upstream of the exhaust gas catalytic converter of the internal combustion engine as a function of at least one operating variable of the internal combustion engine, which is representative of the exhaust gas counter pressure in a current operating mode of the internal combustion engine, assuming a low valve lift or a high valve lift. |
US07891343B2 |
Backflow connector and fuel injector having backflow connector
A fuel injector (10) for injecting fuel into an internal combustion engine has a backflow outlet (18) for taking away the un-injected fuel from the fuel injector (10). A backflow connector (20) is attached to the backflow outlet (18) using a connection component (24), where the connection component (24) is designed so that it can be attached to the backflow nipple (20) in two assembly positions. In the first assembly position the connection component (24) can be pre-assembled on the backflow nipple (20). By moving the connection component (24) into the second assembly position, the backflow nipple (20) can be attached to the fuel injector (10). |
US07891342B2 |
Method and system for controlling operating pressure in a common-rail fuel injection system, particularly for a diesel engine
In a fuel injection system of an internal combustion engine that includes, but is not limited to injectors (I1-I4), each of which is adapted to deliver a predetermined amount of pressurized fuel to a combustion chamber of a respective cylinder (C1-C4) of the engine, a high-pressure accumulator volume common to the injectors (I1-I4) and arranged to maintain the fuel at high-pressure, a pressure sensor for measuring fuel pressure in the accumulator volume, a metering unit for adjusting the fuel pressure in the accumulator volume as a function of the measured pressure, so as to maintain a predetermined target injection pressure set-point dependent on the engine operating point by returning excess fuel to a fuel tank; and an electronic control unit arranged for controlling fuel injection timing and quantity by operating injectors control valves, the operating pressure is controlled by triggering retarded injections (INJpost) of a predetermined quantity of fuel to the combustion chamber of the cylinders (C1-C4) of the engine during a respective exhaust stroke, when pressure above a predetermined threshold (THover) is detected in the accumulator volume, so as to discharge fuel from the accumulator volume without it taking part to the combustion process, thereby reducing pressure in the accumulator volume. |
US07891336B2 |
Differential torque operation for internal combustion engine
A method adjusts a torque differential between firing cylinders based on engine speed such that greater torque differentials are provided at higher engine speeds. Further, the torque differential may be adjusted based on the firing pattern of the cylinders. |
US07891334B2 |
Engine with variable length connecting rod
A four-cycle internal combustion engine comprising a variable length connecting rod, two crank gears, and two drive gears; the first end of the connecting rod is connected to a piston; the second end of the connecting rod is connected to a yoke assembly comprising two arms, a first connecting shaft, and two second connecting shafts; the first connecting shaft connects the second end of the connecting rod to each of the yoke arms; the second end of the connecting rod and the yoke arms rotate freely about the first connecting shaft; each crank gear comprises an off-center hole; the second connecting shafts connect the yoke arms to the off-center hole of each crank gear; the yoke arms and the crank gear rotate freely about the second connecting shaft; and each crank gear is driven by a drive gear. |
US07891333B2 |
Internal combustion engine for vehicle
An electric motor is cooled by an air flow without restricting the degree of freedom in the arrangement of an oil cooler and an oil filter by utilizing a front face of a front portion of an engine body to arrange the electric motor. The engine includes an oil cooler, an oil filter, and an starter motor for driving a crankshaft to rotate. The oil cooler and the starter motor are disposed on a front face, which is directed in an advancing direction of the vehicle, of a front portion of a lower block which forms an engine body. The oil filter is attached to an attachment seat provided on a side face of the front portion which is directed in the sideward direction. A communication oil path for communicating the oil cooler and the oil filter with each other is provided in the inside of the front portion. |
US07891330B2 |
Engine starting method and device
An engine starting method for starting an engine by causing first fuel injection when a crankshaft is reversely rotated by a predetermined angle at the start, and then rotating the crankshaft forward to perform first ignition, the method comprising the steps of immediately stopping driving of a starter motor when a starter switch is turned off before the first fuel injection at the start; and continuously driving the starter motor forward until a cylinder into which an air/fuel mixture is supplied by the first fuel injection performs at least one exhaust stroke and then stopping the driving of the starter motor when the starter switch is turned off after the first fuel injection at the start. |
US07891326B1 |
Engine exhaust system
The engine exhaust system may allow scavenging of two-stroke engines using a retro-tube attached to an exhaust port of a two-stroke engine. Intake air may be obtained directly from environmental air at atmospheric pressure allowed by engine cycle operation and an approximately constant diameter retro-tube having a volume approximately equal to a swept volume of the piston movement. |
US07891325B2 |
Cleaner for the smelt spout of a recovery boiler
A cleaning apparatus for a smelt spout of a recovery boiler, which apparatus comprises a motorized cleaning member (7) for cleaning the smelt spout (1). The cleaning apparatus further comprises a path (5) and a cleaning unit, which comprises motorized transfer means for transferring the cleaning unit to the location of the smelt spout (1) along the path. |
US07891320B2 |
Sheet for pets
A pet sheet 1 including a topsheet 2, a backsheet 3, an absorbent core 41 located between the sheets 2 and 3, and a compression molded product 5 of a ground material of plant origin located between the topsheet 2 and the absorbent core 41. The compression molded product 5 is designed to swell and disintegrate upon water absorption. The compression molded product 5 is preferably designed to form a rewet barrier layer between the topsheet 2 and the absorbent core 41 as a result of swelling and disintegration upon water absorption, the rewet barrier layer being formed of water-containing bulky material disintegrated from the compression molded product 5. The compression molded product preferably further contains inorganic powder, particularly zeolite. |
US07891319B2 |
Liquid bird feeder
A liquid bird feed is provided with a liquid container having a sealable top opening and a bottom opening, a liquid tray adapted to immerse the bottom opening in liquid, and a valve mechanism adapted to close the bottom opening to enable the liquid container to be filled through the sealable top opening. |
US07891318B2 |
Food/beverage dispensing apparatus for traveling pets
A pet food/beverage dispensing apparatus includes; a vertical positioning member configured to at least partially surround at least one substantially vertical fixing member, a height extending portion coupled to the vertical positioning member via a refastenable connector, and a dish receptacle which is configured to retain a dish and is coupled to the height extending portion, wherein the vertical positioning member and the height extending portion are configured to substantially fix the dish receptacle in a predetermined position. |
US07891312B2 |
Thin film forming
Apparatus and method for producing a regular film of foodstuff, comprising a first roll on to which foodstuff is applied in fluid or plastic form, and an independent second roll spaced from the first by a distance t1 on to which a film of foodstuff of thickness t1 is applied by means of the first roll. Also apparatus and method for producing a layered foodstuff produce additionally comprising a doctor blade on the second roll and a rotary former including a number of cavities in which the foodstuff is collected. |
US07891308B2 |
Marine vessel panel assembly and roll-formed panel for same
A prefabricated panel assembly for use in constructing a marine vessel comprises a plurality of elongated, roll-formed metal panels fixed sided to side by longitudinal weld seams. The panels include a plate portion and an angle portion adjoining the plate portion along a longitudinal primary bend, the plate portion having a generally flat panel segment, the angle portion having a web generally orthogonal to the panel segment and a flange generally parallel to the panel segment and adjoining the web along a secondary bend. The panel assembly provides a more efficient and cost-effective alternative to using individual structural steel angles welded to individual steel plate in constructing a marine vessel. |
US07891305B2 |
Wall mountable shelving system with rectangular frame and removable trays
A wall mountable shelving system includes a pair of support members, a storage tray extending between the support members, and stretch releasing adhesive strips arranged to secure the shelving system to the wall. Each support member includes a back plate and a frame member connected with the back plate, and each frame member includes at least a first support portion connected with and arranged generally perpendicular to the back plate, an extension portion arranged generally perpendicular to and extending from the first support portion, and a second support portion extending from the end of the extension portion and arranged generally parallel to the first support portion. |
US07891298B2 |
Guided projectile
A non-propulsive projectile and method of maneuvering the non-propulsive projectile. The non-propulsive projectile includes a divert system with a multiple of valves to maneuver the projectile in response to a control system. |
US07891296B2 |
Connector block for shock tubes, and method of securing a detonator therein
A method of producing an assembly of a connector block (1, 21, 40) and a detonator (5, 25, 41) suitable for retaining at least one shock tube (4, 24) adjacent to a percussion-actuation end (15, 26) of the detonator, and to an assembly thus produced and a connector block therefor. The method comprising inserting a detonator into a connector block having a housing (2, 22, 40) provided with a bore (13, 31, 44), positioning the detonator in the bore of the housing so that the percussion-actuation end of the detonator is positioned adjacent to a slot (14, 35) for receiving the shock tubes; and fixing the detonator in the housing. The detonator is fixed in the housing by causing a body of material (10) to flow plastically into the recess in the detonator and to harden therein to form a locking element fixed to the housing, thereby preventing accidental movement of the detonator within the connector block. |
US07891293B2 |
Use of laser-engraved printing forms
The present invention relates to the use of laser-engraved printing forms for printing using printing inks in a gravure printing process, where the printing inks are pigmented with flake-form effect pigments, to a corresponding gravure printing process, and to a printing ink. |
US07891291B2 |
Double lift tank wine press
A wine making apparatus includes an engaging mechanism for engaging a fermentation tank, and a press mechanism for pressing the wine making ingredients in the tank against an inner surface of the tank. In a described embodiment a tank has a pair of forklift attachment points and a movable platform on a wine press mechanism is adapted for receiving the forklift attachment points. A lifting apparatus raises the platform and tank such that the contents of the tank are crushed by a relatively fixed plate above the tank. A pair of hydraulic rams are connected in series such that fluid output from one raises the other, thereby assuring that the platform and tank are evenly raised. |
US07891290B1 |
Machine for making dairy products
A machine for making yoghurt without requiring active bacterial cultures includes a milk dispenser, an ingredient dispenser, a heating unit and a cooling unit. In particular, a vending machine further includes a credit entry component. The ingredient dispenser system releases at least one salt of a non-toxic divalent cation and at least one non-toxic acidulating agent. |
US07891288B2 |
Apparatus and methods for producing food products
Apparatus 30 for production of food products, which apparatus 30 comprises a feed section 40 and a compression section 41, the feed section 40 comprising open channels 50 into which food for processing is introduced by a plurality of regulating helixes 70 and drive elements 51 in the channels 50 for moving the food along the channels 50, the compression section 41 lying adjacent the feed section 40 such that food is moved by the drive elements 51 from the channels 50 into the compression section 41, the compression section 41 comprising tubes 66 of desired cross-section and length, whereby in use food is moved along the channels 50 and into the compression section 41 by the drive elements 51, subjected to a desired compression in the compression section 41 and then leaves the compression section 41 at the end thereof remote from the feed section 40. Improved quality food products can thereby be provided. |
US07891287B2 |
Coffee maker suitable for aircraft use
A coffee maker assembly particularly suitable for aircraft use delivers hot coffee into a decanter that can be removed from the assembly to serve the coffee to passengers and crew inside an aircraft cabin. The assembly includes an electronically controlled solenoid valve that controls the delivery of water from a reservoir into a coil heater. Electronic circuitry in the system controls the assembly's operation and provides various indications to a user of the system. Various automatic valves, couplings, and other features ensure safe and reliable operation with minimal maintenance. |
US07891286B2 |
Liquid infusion pods containing insoluble materials
A liquid infusion pod having a fluid distribution member and a liquid permeable first filter member. The filter member is sealed to the fluid distribution member forming a first interior chamber that contains a liquid dispersible material. The fluid distribution member has at least one injection nozzle protruding downward from the top of the fluid distribution member into the interior chamber. The injection nozzle has at least one infusion port that directs fluid into the first interior chamber in a direction that is not normal to the top plane of the fluid distribution member. |